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What we know about the Claudia Kambanza murder

Claudia Kambanza, 22, was stabbed to death in Hull on 26 January.

Claudia Kambanza was killed on 26 January. (Reach)
Claudia Kambanza was killed on 26 January. (Reach) (HullLive/MEN)

A man has appeared in court accused of murdering Claudia Kambanza in Hull.

Mateus Johannes appeared at Hull Crown Court on Thursday, 18 April over the death of 22-year-old Kambanza in the city in January.

Here is what we know – and don’t know – about the case.

What we know

At 3am on 26 January, police officers were called to Hinderwell Street in Hull after Kambanza had suffered stab wounds. She was taken to hospital for treatment but died from her injuries shortly afterwards.

Johannes, 28, of no fixed abode, was charged with her murder and being in possession of a bladed article in a public place. He appeared at Hull Crown Court on 30 January, where he was remanded in custody.

In another court hearing on Thursday, 18 April, prosecutor Rupert Doswell KC gave brief details of the case and said that a report on the mental health of Johannes had been obtained for the defence. The prosecution would need to obtain its own report, he added.

The case was adjourned until May 23 for an update on the situation.

A trial date has been fixed for 17 June, with a likely time estimate of five days. The case is expected to be heard before High Court judge Mr Justice Hilliard. Johannes, who was represented by Clive Stockwell KC, was further remanded in custody.

A police cordon in Hull following the killing of Claudia Kambanza. (Reach)
A police cordon in Hull following the killing of Claudia Kambanza. (Reach) (HullLive/MEN)

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In a tribute to Kambanza shortly after her death, her family said: “Claudia was a kind and bubbly warm-hearted person, who wasn’t afraid of challenges and always wanted good for other people.

“She always loved to cook and host people. She had an accommodative spirit and was a people’s person.”

A GoFundMe page was set up by her family asking for financial assistance for her funeral. It raised £2,132.

What we don't know

We know very little about the circumstances behind the killing of Kambanza, and the exact nature of her injuries. These details will eventually emerge in court as the case progresses.

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