A firearm discovered in overgrown vegetation near a skatepark in Saltley, Birmingham, is believed to have been used in the shooting of a teenage boy in Alum Rock earlier this month. The pistol, with white tape wrapped around its handle, was found among twigs and overgrowth in Geranium Grove on Friday, July 10.
Shooting Incident and Victim
The gun is linked to the shooting of a 16-year-old boy at the junction of Bowyer Road and St Saviour’s Road in Alum Rock on Wednesday, July 1, at approximately 5:30pm. The teenager sustained potentially life-threatening gunshot wounds and was treated in hospital. He has since been discharged to continue his recovery.
Arrests and Charges
A 17-year-old boy was arrested shortly after the shooting and has been charged with attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He appeared in court and has been remanded in custody. Another 17-year-old was arrested on Thursday, July 9, on suspicion of conspiracy to murder but has been released on bail with conditions pending further investigation.
Forensic Examination and Investigation
The recovered firearm will now undergo forensic examination to establish its connection to the crime. Detective Inspector Francis Nock of West Midlands Police’s Major Crime Unit stated: “Today’s recovery of a firearm is another step forward in our investigation, and we continue to make good progress as we establish the full circumstances of the shooting. I would continue to encourage people to get in touch with us with any information, mobile phone footage, dashcam footage that may help our investigation.”
Appeal for Information
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has footage from the area to contact them on 101 or via Live Chat on the force website, quoting log number 4638 of 1 July. Anonymous information can also be provided to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
