Thomas Niven, 37, was discovered in a park off Daimler Road in Coventry with three people arrested on suspicion of murder and assisting an offender as family pay tribute
Ben Perrin and Emma O’Neill Content Editor
18:12, 17 Mar 2026Updated 18:12, 17 Mar 2026
(Image: WMP)
This is the first photograph of a man discovered dead in a wheelie bin, as his heartbroken family describe him as having ‘such a vibe for life and a charm that would lift a dull spirit’.
Thomas Niven was found in a park off Daimler Road in Coventry on Friday, 13 March.
West Midlands Police confirmed that a man and woman, both in their 40s, along with a man in his 20s, were arrested on Sunday in Blackpool on suspicion of murder and assisting an offender.
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Mr Niven’s family are appealing for anyone with information about what happened to the 37-year-old, known as ‘Tom’, to contact police.
Enquiries are ongoing and his family are receiving support and updates throughout, reports Birmingham Live.
Thomas Niven(Image: WMP)
His family described him as having “such a vibe for life and a charm that would lift a dull spirit” and being “a pillar of strength towards us all”.
His family said today: “Sadly our youngest son, stepson, brother, brother in law, nephew and uncle, Tom has been tragically taken away from all who dearly loved him.
“As a family we are all in shock and are devastated, our hearts are in pieces at the loss of Tom in such a cruel way. He was a pillar of strength towards us all.
“He was loving and caring, he loved all of his family, he was a big softy when it came to animals and his nephews and nieces.
“He was full of laughter and had such a vibe for life, he had a charm that would lift a dull spirit, he loved his music and playing pool. He loved small harmless pranks but could never keep a straight face and would break out into a laughter.
The police scene in Coventry(Image: WMP)
“We are so proud to have had Tom in our lives, his life has tragically been cut short in the most cruel way. Tom will forever be missed.
“Justice will be done. We love you Tom, rest easy, love us all Dad, Mum, stepmom, brothers and sisters, nephews and nieces and extended family.
“We urge anyone with information to please come forward to the police.”
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Poole from the police’s Major Crime Unit said: “We are continuing to build a picture of what happened and the three people arrested at the weekend remain in police cells as those enquiries continue.
“We’d like to thank everyone who has been in touch providing information so far and we would still urge anyone who might know more to still get in contact.”
Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log 4148 of 13 March or message via Live Chat on the force’s website.