Boy fighting for his life in Birmingham after shooting in street
A 16-year-old boy is fighting for his life after being shot in a Birmingham street. Emergency services were called to Bowyer Road near St Saviours Road in the Alum Rock area shortly before 5.30pm on Wednesday, July 1, after reports of gunfire. The boy sustained gunshot wounds described as potentially life-threatening and was rushed to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.
Emergency responders sent an ambulance, paramedic officer, critical care car and the Northamptonshire Air Ambulance to the scene. Ambulance staff discovered the boy being cared for by bystanders.
A 17-year-old boy was arrested later that evening on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody.
The shooting occurred close to the Zia-Ul-Quran Mosque, but police emphasised there is nothing at this stage to suggest the incident was linked to the place of worship. Detective Inspector Francis Nock from West Midlands Police's Major Crime Team said: "Our investigation is continuing and I would urge anyone who might have seen something or has dashcam or doorbell footage to get in touch. Officers will be in the area today to offer reassurance to the local community."
Police confirmed their investigation is at an early stage, with officers carrying out forensic and CCTV enquiries and speaking to people in the area. "We understand this is extremely worrying for people in the area and local officers will be remaining there to speak to anyone with concerns," a police statement said.
Alum Rock councillors Nosheen Khalid and Shaukat Mahmood issued a joint statement, saying: "Like so many residents this evening we are deeply saddened by the serious incident that has taken place in Alum Rock. Our thoughts and prayers are with the young person their family and loved ones and everyone affected by what has happened."
Anyone with information is urged to call 101 or use Live Chat on the West Midlands Police website, quoting log 4638 of 1 July. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.