A 17-year-old boy has been charged with possession of a knife following a reported firearms incident outside Hamstead train station in Birmingham. West Midlands Police responded to calls about a gun being fired and a knife being seen on Old Walsall Road, at the junction with Rocky Lane, at approximately 5.50pm on Sunday, 2 August. The teenager is due to appear before Birmingham Youth Court on 8 September.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
Police were alerted to the scene after reports of shots fired and a weapon sighting. Officers swiftly established a cordon around the area, sealing off the junction to conduct a thorough investigation. The 17-year-old was arrested earlier this week as part of the ongoing enquiries, and the force has confirmed that no injuries were reported during the incident.
The investigation remains active, with officers still searching for two men who fled the scene on a motorcycle. According to West Midlands Police, the vehicle had its registration plate removed, which has made identifying the suspects more challenging. The force is appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about the men or the motorcycle to come forward.
Police Statement and Appeal for Information
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: "We've charged a teenager with possessing a knife as we continue to investigate an incident involving weapons in Perry Barr. We were called after someone was seen with a knife, and a gun was fired, in Old Walsall Road at around 5.50pm on Sunday (2 August). Thankfully no-one was injured."
The statement continued: "As part of our enquiries we detained a 17-year-old boy earlier this week. He has since been charged with possession of a knife and is due to appear before Birmingham Youth Court on 8 September. The investigation is very much ongoing and we are still seeking to identify two men, and the motorcycle they fled on. We believe the vehicle had its registration plate removed, and we’re keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time or has information which could help our enquiries."
Community Impact and Ongoing Enquiries
The incident has raised concerns among local residents, as the location is a busy area near the train station and shops. Police have increased their presence in the neighbourhood to reassure the public while the investigation continues. The force has urged anyone with dashcam footage or mobile phone recordings from the time of the incident to review it and share any relevant material.
West Midlands Police have provided multiple channels for the public to assist: individuals can contact the force on 101 or via Live Chat, quoting log 3313 of 2/8/26. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. The force emphasised that all information, no matter how small, could be crucial in locating the two men and the motorcycle.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
The 17-year-old's court appearance is scheduled for 8 September at Birmingham Youth Court, where he will face charges related to the possession of a knife. The police have not disclosed further details about the suspect or the circumstances leading to the arrest, as the legal process is ongoing.
This incident is part of a broader effort by West Midlands Police to tackle knife crime and firearms offences in the region. The force has reiterated its commitment to removing dangerous weapons from the streets and holding those responsible accountable. As the investigation progresses, officers are continuing to review evidence and follow leads, with the aim of bringing all parties involved to justice.
