Murder Suspect Still Evades Capture One Week After Acocks Green Tragedy
A man wanted in connection with the murder of a Birmingham teenager remains at large, with police continuing their urgent search exactly one week after the fatal incident. The community of Acocks Green is still reeling from the shocking stabbing that claimed the life of a young man.
Details of the Tragic Incident
Chris Ikouara, aged just 19, was discovered with fatal stab wounds at an address on Olton Boulevard East in Acocks Green on Tuesday, January 13. Emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 2pm, where paramedics made desperate attempts to save the teenager's life. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the location, leaving family and friends devastated.
West Midlands Police have identified 22-year-old Zachariah Liburd as their primary suspect in the murder investigation. Despite an intensive week-long manhunt involving highly-trained officers following multiple lines of enquiry, Liburd has managed to evade capture, prompting renewed appeals for public assistance.
Police Appeals and Investigation Progress
Detective Superintendent Jim Munro has made direct appeals to the suspect, urging him to do the right thing and hand himself in before officers locate him. A police spokesperson confirmed this afternoon that their appeal to trace Liburd remains active and urgent.
The investigation team has been working tirelessly around the clock, speaking to witnesses and meticulously reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area. Specialist officers continue to support the grieving family of Chris Ikouara, who have described their lost loved one as kind, caring and deeply cherished.
Public Assistance Crucial to Investigation
Police are emphasising the critical importance of community cooperation in their search for the suspect. Authorities are asking anyone with information about Zachariah Liburd's whereabouts to come forward immediately, regardless of how insignificant they might believe their information to be.
All information will be treated with strict confidence, according to police assurances. However, officers have issued a stern warning that anyone found to be assisting Liburd in avoiding capture will face arrest and prosecution themselves.
How to Provide Information
Members of the public with any information that could assist the investigation are encouraged to:
- Contact West Midlands Police directly on 101
- Use the Live Chat function on the police website
- Quote log number 2771 of January 13 when providing information
For those wishing to remain completely anonymous, information can be shared with the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111. The police investigation continues with determination as they seek to bring the suspect to justice and provide answers to a grieving family and concerned community.
