The Handsworth community came together in a solemn display of grief and solidarity on Wednesday, holding a minute's silence for a 54-year-old man killed in a hit-and-run crash on Soho Road.
Community gathers in poignant tribute
Members of the Soho Road Business Improvement District (BID) and local residents paused for reflection at the scene of the tragedy on Wednesday afternoon. They laid a bouquet of flowers to mark the spot where the man lost his life after being struck by a Vauxhall Corsa at around 11.20am on Tuesday, December 16.
In a heartfelt statement, Soho Road BID extended its condolences, saying: "Our heartfelt condolences are extended to the family, friends and loved ones of the gentleman who tragically lost his life in the hit-and-run incident." The organisation also expressed hope for the full and swift recovery of a 47-year-old woman who was injured in the same incident and remains in hospital.
Police investigation and arrest
The driver of the vehicle fled the scene following the collision, but the car involved was later recovered just off Soho Road. West Midlands Police moved quickly to investigate, arresting a 41-year-old man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving at around 9am on Tuesday. He remains in custody for questioning.
Authorities are now appealing for witnesses to come forward. A police spokesperson said: "We would like to speak to anyone who may have been in the area at the time and saw what happened or has any dash cam or mobile phone footage." Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting incident number 1819 of 16 December.
Impact on the local community
The Soho Road BID acknowledged the profound impact the events have had on the Handsworth community, describing it as "distressing." They praised the emergency response, noting that their own street security officers were among the first on the scene, providing immediate support to victims and assisting emergency services.
By Wednesday, the clean-up operation was complete. Soho Road has been fully cleared of debris from the incident and is open to vehicles, with public pavements restored to normal use. However, the emotional scars on this tight-knit Birmingham community will take far longer to heal.
