Police investigate as gun shots were fired on Hamstead Road in Handsworth, Birmingham

Police are investigating injuries sustained by three men after gunshots were fired on Hamstead Road in Handsworth after 6pm on Friday (February 24).

Three men attended hospital following the incident which reports say happened outside St Mary’s Church. Armed police later cordoned off the area, near Handsworth park, and the road was closed. Officers also arrested an 18 year-old man on ssupcioun of possessing a knife. He remains in custory today (Saturday, February 25).

Police said: “We’re investigating after shots were fired in Hamstead Road #Lozells just after 6pm today (Fri). Officers attended and a 19-year-old man was treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital. Two further, men also 19, later attended hospital separately with gunshot injuries.”

Local MP Khalid Mahmood (Lab: Perry Barr) warned people to avoid the area saying that Hamstead Road was expected to remain shut until midday today.

West Midlands Police has confirmed that a cordon is remains in place at the scene after officers sealed off the area for a forensic search. The force added that investigators have been speaking with witnesses and are reviewing CCTV footage from the area as our part of our on-going enquiries. And that officers from local teams are carrying out extra patrols to support the community. Det Inspector Matt Underwood, from Force CID, said: “We understand incidents of this nature are shocking and we are thoroughly investigating all lines of enquiry. We have already spoken with a number of people who were at the scene but we would also urge anyone who can help further with our enquiries to get in touch.” Anyone who heard or saw anything – or has dash-cam or CCTV footage – is asked to call officers on 101 or message on Live Chat through the West Midlands Police website and quote log 3095 of 24 February. Information can be passed on anonymously if preferred, via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.