Huge police update as boy, 16, shot during England’s World Cup match | UK | News
Police at the scene of last night’s shooting (Image: BirminghamLive)
Detectives investigating the taser shooting of a 16-year-old boy in a British city as the country watched England battle to victory in the World Cup have issued a major update. The teenager suffered serious gunshot wounds at Bowyer Road in Alum Rock, Birmingham, on Wednesday evening just before 5.30pm, when England were playing the first half of the game.
The boy was taken to hospital to be treated for “potentially life-threatening” gunshot wounds and was found near a mosque – but police said “at this stage we do not believe the shooting is linked to this place of worship”. Police have now confirmed that a 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is being held in police custody.
West Midlands Police officers remained at the scene of the worrying crime scene on Thursday morning as investigators continued to search for doorbell camera footage, witnesses and CCTV.
Detective Inspector Francis Nock, from our Major Crime Team, said: “Our investigation is ongoing and I would appeal to anyone who may have seen anything or have dashcam or doorbell footage to get in touch.
“Officers will be in the area today to reassure the local community.”
Birmingham councilor Majid Mahmood said the attack was “incredibly personal”, saying he was related to the victim.
Mahmood, councilor for neighboring Bromford and Hodge Hill, said: “Like many in the community, I am deeply saddened by the tragic incident at Alum Rock.”
“Thoughts and prayers are with him, his family and everyone affected during this incredibly difficult time,” he said.
Mahmood added that the family’s “sincerest request” is that people not post any photos or videos from the scene. He said anyone with footage or information should send it directly to police to assist with the investigation.
“When we come together with compassion, dignity and respect in times like these, our community becomes stronger,” he said.
Alum Rock (Image: BirminghamLive)
In a new statement on Thursday morning, West Midlands Police said: “A teenager has been arrested following reports of a shooting at Alum Rock yesterday (1 July).
“We were called to Bowyer Road, near St Saviors Road in Birmingham, shortly before 5.30pm.
“A 16-year-old boy was hospitalized with a gunshot wound and is in critical condition.
“Last night a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody.
“Although the incident took place near a mosque, we do not believe at this stage that the attack is linked to this place of worship.
“Anyone who saw what happened or has footage from the area should call us on 101 or speak to us via Live Chat on our website, quoting log 4638 of 1 July.
“You can also speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”
