West Midlands Ambulance Service has confirmed that a 16-year-old boy is in a critical condition after being shot in Birmingham. The incident occurred on Thursday evening in the Kingshurst area of the city.
Paramedics were called to the scene on Gilson Way at around 7:30 PM. The teenager was found with a single gunshot wound to his chest. He was treated at the scene by advanced paramedics before being rushed to a major trauma centre.
Police Investigation Underway
West Midlands Police have cordoned off the area and are conducting forensic examinations. Detective Inspector Jim Colclough, from the force's homicide unit, said: "This is a shocking incident that has left a young man fighting for his life. We are doing everything we can to establish the circumstances and bring those responsible to justice."
Police believe the shooting was targeted and are appealing for anyone with information or dashcam footage to come forward. No arrests have been made so far.
Community Reaction
Local residents have expressed shock and concern over the violence. The Kingshurst ward councillor, Rachel Harris, said: "This is devastating news for the community. We stand with the family and urge anyone with information to assist the police."
Statistics from the Office for National Statistics show that gun crime in the West Midlands has increased by 12% in the past year, with 342 incidents recorded in 2023.
Ambulance Service Response
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "We dispatched two ambulances, a paramedic officer, and the Midlands Air Ambulance Critical Care Car to the scene. The patient was treated for a life-threatening injury and conveyed to hospital under blue lights."
The teenager remains in hospital in a stable but critical condition. Police have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents and prevent further incidents.
