A shocking daylight gun battle sent terrified shoppers, including parents with babies, diving for cover at a row of shops in Birmingham. The violent disorder erupted outside a Greggs bakery in Sheldon, prompting quick-thinking staff to lock customers inside for safety.
Scene of the Sheldon Shooting
The incident occurred at 12.55pm on Friday, December 19, at The Radleys shopping parade off Sheldon Heath Road. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing two men fighting and shooting outside the shops.
One shaken witness, who was inside the Greggs with her mother, posted online: "I am so shook up to the core, myself and mom have been in the middle of a gun battle. I feel sick." She praised a staff member named Heather for noticing the danger outside and potentially saving lives.
Heroic Staff Action Saves Customers
According to multiple accounts, staff acted swiftly to protect those inside the busy bakery. They locked the doors as the men outside reportedly tried to get in, before ushering customers to the relative safety of the kitchen area at the back of the shop.
"The manager put the shutters down to protect us. I have never been so scared," the witness added. Another customer, who was present with a two-year-old, said: "Someone shouted 'he’s got a gun' then I seen the gun. I ran straight to the back of Gregg’s."
That witness described a scene of panic, with people having anxiety attacks, but highlighted the bravery of the workers who guided them to a locked back room. "There were babies in prams," another added. "They just don’t care, the shop was packed. The gun went off - it made the people panic."
Police Investigation and Appeal
West Midlands Police confirmed they were called to The Radleys shortly before 12.55pm following reports of a disorder involving weapons. They are treating the incident as a 'gun battle'.
A spokesperson stated that no arrests have been made and inquiries are ongoing. The ambulance service was not required to attend the scene. Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone who can assist the investigation is asked to call police on 101, quoting incident number 2463 of 19 December. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
