A major police manhunt remains underway in Birmingham, 48 hours after a 19-year-old man was fatally stabbed in Acocks Green. The victim has been named as Chris Ikouara, who was found with fatal wounds at an address on Olton Boulevard East.
Timeline of a Tragedy
Emergency services were called to the scene in the Acocks Green area shortly before 2pm on Tuesday, 13 January. West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed they received a 999 call at 1.48pm reporting a stabbing.
A significant emergency response was dispatched, including an ambulance, a paramedic officer, a trauma doctor and a Critical Care Car. Despite medics administering advanced life support at the scene, Mr Ikouara was pronounced dead. His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
The Victim and The Suspect
The victim, Chris Ikouara, known as KC to friends, was described by his heartbroken family as a kind, caring and deeply cherished son, brother, uncle and friend. In a moving tribute, they said he was known for his humour and protective nature, and that his "cheeky smile and goofy laugh will be missed".
In a significant development, West Midlands Police have publicly named a suspect. They are urgently seeking Zachariah Liburd, aged 22, in connection with the murder investigation. A photograph of Liburd has been released to the public.
Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, from the force's Homicide team, issued a direct appeal: "I would urge Liburd to do the right thing. Come forward before we find you." He also warned that anyone found to be helping the suspect avoid capture would face arrest and prosecution.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The semi-detached house where the tragedy occurred was sealed off with police tape as forensic examinations got underway. Detectives say they are following several lines of enquiry and are working at pace.
Police have set up a Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) to gather digital evidence from the public. They are particularly keen to receive any dashcam, CCTV, or mobile phone footage from the Olton Boulevard East area around the time of the incident.
The community is urged to come forward with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem. Information can be given to West Midlands Police by calling 101 and quoting log number 2771 of 13 January. Alternatively, details can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Local officers are conducting reassurance patrols in the Acocks Green area following the incident, which has caused considerable concern amongst residents.
