Police issue warning ahead of Liam Jones funeral, who was killed after being hit by a car in Sheldon

Police have issued a warning appealing for calm ahead of Liam Jones’ funeral this week.

Liam, 22, tragically died after being struck by what’s believed to be a Seat Leon near the junction of Moat Lane and Vera Road at around 11.55pm on Tuesday, August 1. The 22-year-old was riding an electric bike at the time and was sadly confirmed dead at the scene.

Four people have been arrested on suspicion of his murder and have now been released on bail. The investigation continues.

A vigil took place on August 6 for people to pay their respects to Liam. During the large gathering police say bikes were being driven dangerously. West Midland Police said they received more than 60 calls from members of the public as more than 100 people gathered, along with 20 to 30 people on bikes.

The coming week will also mark Liam’s 23rd birthday, and a statement from West Midlands Police said they are ‘urging people to honour Liam’s life in a respectful way, so that the funeral can take place peacefully.’

Police statement

A spokesman for the force, said: “We appreciate that this is a difficult time for his family and friends and we are urging people to honour Liam’s life in a respectful way, so that the funeral can take place peacefully. On 6 August, we were forced to issue dispersal notices to bike riders who were riding dangerously, performing wheelies and speeding up and down Moat Lane at a gathering to remember Liam.

“We received more than 60 calls from members of the public as over 100 people gathered as 20 to 30 people on bikes caused concern for local residents. While we fully appreciate people want to remember Liam, this can’t be done in a way that puts lives at risk or causes major disruption to the roads and the community.

“We will not tolerate dangerous driving, disorder or anti-social behaviour by anyone and we will have a robust policing presence in the area over the coming days to ensure people’s safety.”

Chief Inspector Mark Lacey, from Birmingham police, said: “We fully understand that people want to pay their respects, but we ask that this is done peacefully and that no-one brings further disorder to the streets of Birmingham. “Anyone who takes part in this type of behaviour needs to understand that they risk being arrested, charged with criminal offences and could potentially be jailed. This may not happen at the time but rest assured it will happen and we will use all the powers available to us. “We will be in and around the area of where the funeral, wake and a vigil are taking place to offer reassurance to Liam’s family and the wider public, and will take action against anyone who is intent on committing crime.”