West Midlands Police officers were called to Stratford Road at the junction of Palmerstone Road in Sparkbrook, Birmingham, on Monday (10 August) at around 6.15pm following concerns for a person's welfare. Upon arrival, they discovered a man's body on the steps of a disused church. Sadly, nothing could be done to save him, and he was declared dead at the scene by emergency services.
Police investigation and road closure
Stratford Road was closed in both directions as police carried out their enquiries. The closure affected the junction with Palmerstone Road, and National Express West Midlands bus services 2, 3, 4, 4A, 5, and 6 were diverted in both directions via Walford Road and Golden Hillock Road while emergency services responded. The road was later reopened.
Coroner's involvement
West Midlands Police have confirmed that the man's death is not being treated as suspicious. A file has been prepared for the coroner, and details will be passed on to the Birmingham and Solihull Coroner's Court. An inquest will be opened in due course.
In a statement, West Midlands Police said: "We were called to Stratford Road, Sparkbrook, at around 6.15pm on Monday (10 August) following concerns for a person's welfare. Sadly, a man was confirmed dead at the scene. His death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file has been prepared for the coroner."
The incident prompted a significant emergency response, with police and ambulance services attending the scene. The closure of Stratford Road, a key thoroughfare in the area, caused disruption for motorists and public transport users during the evening rush hour.
Community impact and next steps
The discovery has saddened the local community in Sparkbrook, with residents expressing their condolences. The man's identity has not yet been released, and it is expected that the inquest will provide further details in due course. The Birmingham and Solihull Coroner's Court will oversee the process, ensuring that the circumstances surrounding the man's death are fully examined.
