A man has been sentenced to a minimum of 27 years in prison for the murder of a pregnant woman in Birmingham.
Filmon Andmichaen, 31, was convicted today (27 November) at Birmingham Crown Court for killing Liwam Bereket, 26, and her unborn baby girl on 1 August 2023.
The tragic incident occurred after Andmichaen lured Liwam to a secluded area in Ladywood, where he fatally stabbed her. Liwam, who was six months pregnant and excited about becoming a mother, died at the scene alongside her unborn child.
The pair had been in a relationship, but tensions arose when Andmichaen discovered the pregnancy and demanded Liwam have an abortion. Refusing to comply, Liwam was subjected to Andmichaen’s violent actions, which culminated in her murder.
After the attack, Andmichaen returned home and admitted to his brother that he had assaulted a woman. Two hours later, he called the police, claiming the killing was accidental.
An investigation revealed that Andmichaen had previously been abusive towards Liwam. Witnesses reported seeing him assault her on the street, while friends described his behaviour as aggressive and controlling. CCTV footage showed the couple entering the woodland area where the attack took place. Andmichaen was later seen leaving alone.
During the trial, Andmichaen claimed the deaths were unintentional. However, evidence showed he ensured Liwam could not call for help, taking her phone, which was later found in his car.
Detective Chief Inspector Jim Colclough from the Homicide Unit said:
*”It’s heart-breaking that a young woman looking forward to becoming a mother was killed in such a callous way. Andmichaen has shown no remorse and caused Liwam’s family further pain by putting them through a trial.”*
The case underscores the ongoing commitment of West Midlands Police to tackling violence against women and girls. Colclough added, *”Violence against women and girls is unacceptable and won’t be tolerated. We’ll continue working to ensure everyone feels safe in the West Midlands.”*
Liwam’s family expressed hopes that the sentencing will bring some measure of peace as they mourn the loss of their daughter and her unborn child.