Mum of Leon Adams in Christmas plea to catch 2002 Cardiff killer

Mum of Leon Adams in Christmas plea to catch 2002 Cardiff killer

The mother of Leon Adams, a man who passed away nearly 23 years after a violent assault left him severely injured, has made a heartfelt appeal during the Christmas season to help identify the person responsible for the attack. Leon died last December, having spent more than two decades paralyzed and reliant on round-the-clock care following an incident on Valentine’s Day in 2002 in Cardiff. A coroner later determined that the attack significantly contributed to his death.

Leon was just 24 years old when he was attacked. His shift at The Cottage Inn on St Mary Street had ended late on the night of 13 February 2002, coinciding with a Wales football match at the Millennium Stadium against Argentina. He was found early the following morning near Grangetown train station by a cleaner finishing a night shift. At the scene, police discovered that Leon’s £138 in wages was missing, and witnesses reported seeing three men arguing nearby around the time of the assault. Although the case was featured twice on the BBC’s Crimewatch programme—in 2002 and again in 2013—no arrests have ever been made.

Angela Main, Leon’s mother, described the horrific nature of the attack and its devastating consequences. “Somebody stamped on his face,” she said, explaining that the brutal act caused the tetraplegia that left her son paralyzed. Leon remained in a coma for two years and required continuous care after the assault. Despite his condition, Angela shared that he was able to communicate using a keyboard and screen, allowing his “wicked sense of humour” to shine through. Leon loved music, particularly David Bowie, and enjoyed participating in quizzes. “He was an absolute star – he fought and fought,” Angela said.

Detective Superintendent Mark O’Shea emphasized the police’s ongoing commitment to solving this case. He noted that over the past two decades, the investigation team has revisited the evidence multiple times, taking advantage of advancements in forensic science that might help identify the attacker. “There’s people out there that know who it is – there’s got to be,” Angela insisted, underscoring her hope for justice. Police have also confirmed receiving new information since Leon’s death and encourage anyone with relevant details to come forward, stressing that Leon’s mother deserves justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crimestoppers

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