Family pay tribute to Nechells teenager killed in Small Heath stabbing

The family of a teenager who was fatally stabbed in Small Heath have said they are in shock and paid tribute to the ‘young and energetic’ 18-year-old.

Police have named the teenager who was killed as Yahya Sharif.

The 18-year-old was discovered seriously injured in Coventry Road at just before 5.30pm on Friday (10 December).

Yahya, from Nechells, was tragically confirmed dead at the scene.

A post mortem revealed he died from a stab wound to the chest.

A statement released on behalf of his family, said: “We cannot believe that Yahya has disappeared from our eyes.

“We still don’t know the reason he was killed. A young, energetic 18-year-old his dream was to be a digital marketing specialist.

“The whole community are shocked. May God be with the family he left behind, especially his parents.”

Police appeal for information

Following the tragic incident, West Midlands police are appealing for information to help find his attacker.

Detective Inspector Hannah Whitehouse, from our homicide unit, said: “Yahya was just 18 and with his life ahead of him. This has now been taken away in the most tragic of circumstances.

“There is no clear motive for the attack and we’re working round the clock to identify and trace who was responsible.”

She continued:“We’ve spoken to a number of witnesses but we still need to hear from anyone with information who can help us.

“I’d appeal for those who were there at the time to do the right thing, come and speak to us and tell us exactly what happened and why. It’s the least Yahya’s family deserve.”

If you can help detectives message police via the Live Chat on the West Midlands police website, or call 101, quoting reference number 3643 10/12/21.

To stay anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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