West Midlands Police are continuing to question a teenager after a man was left fighting for his life following an attack near Smethwick High Street. Officers and paramedics were called to St Paul's Road, off Tollhouse Way, around 8.30pm on 14 June, where they found the seriously injured man.
Victim in Life-Threatening Condition
The victim, said to be in his 50s, was taken to hospital where his condition is described as life-threatening. Police have been granted extra time to question a 17-year-old male on suspicion of attempted murder after he was detained in Leeds.
Authorities are also saying there is no evidence of the incident being a racist attack but are keeping an open mind. In a new statement, West Midlands Police said: "Our investigation into the attack on a man on St Pauls Road, Smethwick is continuing. A 17-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of attempted murder remains in custody after we were granted more time for questioning. From the information we have received so far, there is no evidence of this being a hate crime. However, we are keeping an open mind."
No Further Action for Second Arrest
A 45-year-old man who was arrested shortly after the attack has now been told he will face no further action. The force is also increasing patrols in the area over the next few days. On Monday, an area of overgrown wasteland was cordoned off by police.
The statement added: "We are continuing to appeal to anyone who may have been in the Tollhouse Way or St Pauls area at the time or has any information to get in touch with us by calling 101 quoting incident number 3929 of 14 June. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
