An 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving following a collision on Halesowen Road in Cradley Heath that left a motorcyclist with life-changing injuries. The incident occurred just before 9pm on Sunday, July 5, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.
Arrest and charges
The driver of the car allegedly fled the scene after the crash but was apprehended a short time later by West Midlands Police. He remains in custody on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, drug driving, and possession of Class B drugs. Police are continuing their enquiries.
Motorcyclist's condition
The motorcyclist, a man whose age has not been disclosed, sustained life-threatening injuries and was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesperson stated: 'Upon arrival, ambulance staff found one patient, a man who was the motorcyclist who was assessed and had sustained life-threatening injuries. He received advanced trauma care from ambulance staff at the scene before being conveyed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital with medics travelling on board for continued treatment en route.'
Police appeal for witnesses
West Midlands Police have urged anyone who was in the area at the time, or who has CCTV, dashcam, or phone footage, to come forward. A police spokesperson said: 'Officers were called to Halesowen Road, Cradley Heath, shortly before 8.55pm, last night (5 July) to reports of a collision between a motorbike and a car. The motorcyclist was seriously injured and taken to hospital, where he remains with suspected life-changing injuries. The car was driven away from the scene and following enquiries, an 18-year-old man was arrested a short time later on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, drug driving, and possession of Class B drugs. He remains in custody for questioning while our enquiries continue. We would urge anyone who may have been in the area at the time, has any CCTV, dashcam or phone footage to get in touch with us by calling 101 or using the Live Chat option on our website quoting incident number 4666 of 5 July. Alternatively, you can make an anonymous report via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.'
Community impact
The crash has left the local community in shock, with residents expressing concern over road safety on Halesowen Road. The road was closed for several hours while investigators examined the scene. This incident highlights the devastating consequences of dangerous driving and the importance of road safety awareness.
