Man in 20s dies after ‘targeted and vicious’ attack by gang in Walsall

Police have launched a murder investigation after a man died following an attack in Walsall town centre today (28 January)

West Midlands Police said that the victim, in his 20s, was set upon by a group of men believed to be armed with weapons on High Street, near to Asda, just after 1.20am.

He was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead just before 3am.

Today a large part of the town centre has been sealed off while officers work at the scene, and police are urging people to be aware that access is restricted.

‘Targeted and vicious attack’

Det Insp Laura Harrison, leading the investigation, said: “It’s very early in the investigation, but this appears to be a targeted and vicious attack involving a group of men carrying weapons.

“We’re supporting the victim’s family at this awful time, and are working hard to identify those responsible.

“We’ve already recovered CCTV and continue to work at the scene today.”

Police will be using extra powers, called section 60 powers, to give them the ability to stop and search people without the need to have specific grounds in Walsall

Inspector Jon-Paul Kyffin, of Walsall Police, said: “We’ll have extra officers in Walsall town centre today to offer reassurance.

“I’d ask people planning on travelling into Walsall town centre to think about their journey today as the area around the scene on the High Street is closed while we investigate.”

“We are appealing for anyone with CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage showing what happened to get in touch, quoting log 225 of 28 January. You can reach us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”