Armed police attended the scene where a man called “Bailey” was attacked in what was described as a horrendous incident.
Police have launched a murder probe after the man was attacked by an armed gang in Walsall town centre. The victim, in his 20s, was set upon in High Street, near an Asda store, just after 1.20am.
He was rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead just before 3am. A large part of the town centre was sealed off as officers worked at the scene.
Officers were granted extra stop-and-search powers in Walsall today, with extra patrols in the area.
Pictures from the scene showed a cordon in place, with police officers at the scene. Walsall Town Centre and Markets said on Facebook: “Market Square, the area outside Poundland, the Entertainer and B&M in Walsall town centre has been cordoned off due to a police incident.
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.
Extra Section 60 powers will be used by police in the town today, enabling officers to stop and search people without the need for specific grounds.
“Please avoid the area.” Walsall FC Police also tweeted news of the incident ahead of Walsall FC’s clash with Leicester City this afternoon.
It said: “Good morning Saddlers. Please be aware of a separate police incident we are dealing with in Walsall town centre around the Digbeth area, resulting in certain pubs/shops having to close whilst initial investigations take place.”
Tributes are building near a spot where a man was fatally injured in an armed gang attack in Walsall town centre. A group of men set upon the victim, in his 20s, with weapons on High Street, near to Asda, just after 1.20am.
