New tragedy for Yousef Makki's family as mum Debbie dies

55 year old passed away in early hours of Sunday

Makki family
Author: Richard MuriePublished 24th May 2020

The mum of teenager Yousef Makki who died after a stabbing at Hale Barns in Altrincham in March 2019 has herself passed away.

A family statement's been issued saying 55 year old Debbie died at 4am on Sunday (24th May).

Debbie had launched the "Justice For Yousef" campaign after a teenager was cleared of his murder and manslaughter in court and a second cleared of perverting the course of justice in connect to his death.

The statement says: "It is with a broken heart that we have to share this devastating news: our beloved Mum and Nana, so loved by everyone who knew her, died in the early hours of this morning.

"She was rushed to hospital via ambulance two days ago after struggling at home. The doctors told us she was critical. She was not strong enough to fight.

"Lockdown isolated my mum from her Grandchildren who kept her going and she had too much time to think about the loss of Yousef - and the stark injustice and inhumane treatment of our family that followed.

"We were unable to be with her in her last moments, just as we were unable to be with Yousef - but they are together now which brings us some comfort. Our world has fallen apart all over again and we are all in complete shock."

Debbie's daughter (Yousef's sister) Jade added, "My mum's mental and physically health had deteriorated dramatically over the past year and she hadn’t been the same.

"Her heart was broken and the spark in her eyes had gone. The toll of losing Yousef was colossal, but the injustice and the constant uphill battle we had to fight meant she never found peace.

"My mum was the strongest, bravest lady I have ever met and we will miss her dearly. We want to thank everyone who has supported us throughout and will continue to do so."

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has paid tribute too.

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