In July 2021, 37-year-old Natalie Shotter, a mother of three, was tragically raped and killed in Southall Park, West London. The accused, Mohamed Lidow (also referred to as Iidow in some reports), was a 35-year-old homeless Somali immigrant. Prosecutors at the Old Bailey detailed how Natalie was found unconscious on a park bench after a night out. She was allegedly assaulted while unconscious, with CCTV footage showing her barely moving during the attack. It was reported that her inability to consent or defend herself played a critical role in her death, which was caused by the repeated assault.
Natalie had been seen earlier that night dancing outside a shop, enjoying herself before the tragic events unfolded. Mohamed Lidow, who denied the charges, faced a trial that brought attention to the vulnerability of victims in similar situations.
The case is particularly heart-wrenching as it highlights issues surrounding homelessness, violence, and the protection of vulnerable individuals in public spaces
The trial against Iidow began at the Old Bailey in London at the end of September 2024, where evidence such as CCTV footage of the crime was presented. No verdict had been reached by the beginning of October 2024
