Police have confirmed that a serious assault in Smethwick is now being treated as a homophobic hate crime. The attack, which left a man in his 50s with severe injuries, took place on St Pauls Road at around 8.30pm on Sunday, June 14.
Second Arrest Made
A second 17-year-old boy was arrested just before 4am on Friday, June 19, in the Dudley area. This follows the earlier arrest of another 17-year-old, who has been charged with attempted murder and appeared before magistrates in Birmingham.
The charged teenager has been remanded into youth detention and is scheduled to appear at Birmingham Crown Court on July 17. The second suspect remains in custody on suspicion of attempted murder and will be questioned.
Hate Crime Confirmation
West Midlands Police stated that new information has led them to treat the incident as a hate crime due to a homophobic comment allegedly made during the attack. However, there is no evidence to suggest the assault was motivated by race or religion.
Chief Superintendent Kim Madill of Sandwell Police expressed concern over the attack and assured the community that officers are working diligently to establish the full circumstances and identify all those responsible.
Victim's Condition
The victim, a man in his 50s, remains in hospital in a critical but stable condition. Detectives from the Major Crime Unit continue to investigate the incident.
Appeal for Information
Police are urging anyone who was in the Tollhouse Way or St Pauls area at the time of the attack to come forward. Witnesses can contact police on 101, quoting incident number 3929 of 14 June. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
