The family of a man killed in a hit-and-run on Soho Road in Birmingham are confronting an "unbearable reality", the West Midlands Mayor has said, as a major police hunt continues for the driver who fled the scene.
Community in Mourning After "Senseless Tragedy"
Mayor Richard Parker said his heart went out to everyone affected by the collision, which he described as a "senseless tragedy on our roads". The incident occurred shortly before 11.20am on Monday, December 16, near the junction of Soho Road and Thornhill Road in the Handsworth area.
"A family is facing the unbearable reality that someone they love is gone," Mr Parker stated. "Their lives have been changed forever in an instant. They are in all our thoughts, alongside the second victim who is being treated in hospital."
He emphasised the profound impact on the local community, saying: "It is a devastating moment for the Handsworth community. Too many families here have already suffered loss on the streets they call home."
Police Appeal for Witnesses and Footage
West Midlands Police confirmed that two pedestrians were struck by a car. A man, believed to be in his 50s, was taken to hospital where he later died. A woman in her 40s was also hit and rushed to hospital with leg injuries.
A police spokesperson said: "The driver of the vehicle fled the scene and we're continuing our work to locate him. The vehicle involved was a Vauxhall Corsa and has been recovered near the scene."
Officers have urged anyone with information to come forward. They are particularly keen to speak to witnesses or anyone with dash cam or mobile phone footage from the area around the time of the collision.
The road was expected to remain closed for some time as investigations continued, with motorists advised to avoid the area.
Mayor's Plea to the Driver and Thanks to Emergency Services
In his statement, Mayor Parker issued a direct appeal to the person responsible for the hit-and-run. "There is one clear message: do the right thing and hand yourself in immediately," he said.
He also paid tribute to the emergency service responders who attended the scene. "They responded with professionalism and care in the most difficult circumstances and we owe them our deepest thanks," Mr Parker added.
Police are continuing their enquiries and have asked anyone with information to call 101, quoting incident number 1819 of 16 December. Information can also be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
