A murder investigation is underway in Birmingham after a man was fatally stabbed in the back garden of a terraced house. Emergency services rushed to the scene on Swanage Road in Small Heath but were unable to save the victim, who was pronounced dead at the location.
Timeline of the Tragic Incident
West Midlands Police were called to reports of a stabbing at an address on Swanage Road shortly after 6.40pm on Saturday, December 20. Armed officers and paramedics from the West Midlands Ambulance Service attended urgently.
Despite their efforts, the victim could not be saved. A 28-year-old man was detained at the scene and arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody for questioning as inquiries continue.
Police Investigation and Scene
Forensic teams erected a blue tent in the property's garden as part of the evidence-gathering process. The scene remained in place throughout Sunday, December 21, with two forensic vans present and an officer stationed to guard the house.
A police spokesperson confirmed the force is in the early stages of its investigation. Officers are carrying out urgent inquiries in the local area to establish the full circumstances leading to the death.
Community Reaction in Small Heath
Residents of the normally quiet street expressed their shock at the violent incident occurring so close to Christmas. One local described how the area was lit up by the blue lights of emergency service vehicles.
Another resident suggested the property where the stabbing occurred was a house in multiple occupation (HMO). A neighbour told BirminghamLive: "It's awful just before Christmas for this to happen. My heart goes out to the man's family." Others described the community as being deeply shocked by the event.
The police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses or anyone with details should call 101, quoting incident number 3826 of 20 December. Information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
