Man set alight in Birmingham underpass near the city centre as police seek e-scooter rider

A man suffered potentially life threatening injuries after an assailant set him alight in an underpass near Birmingham city centre.

In the shocking attack, the victim - who police believe was sleeping in the underpass - had bedding set alight and then piled on top of him. He is aged in his 30s and remains in hospital in a stable condition after his face and hands were injured.

The incident happened at just after 9.20am on Tuesday (November 7) near where Hockley Hill crosses over Boulton Middleway. Police are appealing for witnesses and especially want to speak with a man who was riding an e-scooter who is described as white, 5ft 5in and wearing a white vest, white hoody, black gloves, grey jogging bottoms, black shoes and chains.

Officers have released the image of the e-scooter rider above adding: “We know this image isn't very clear, and we are working to find further CCTV opportunities, but we hope that this image may prompt someone to come forward with information.”

If you can help, please get in touch with investigators via Live Chat on the West Midlands Police website or call 101, quoting crime reference 20/972160/23. If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can tell Crimestoppers what you know on 0800 555 111, without saying who you are.