Police say Smethwick victim had been shot

A man found dead at a disused Smethwick factory had been shot, police revealed today.

A murder investigation has now been launched following the death of the man, understood to be 33-year-old Leon Corey Robinson.

Mr Robinson, whose body was discovered on Thursday morning, had been missing from his home in Rubery, Birmingham, since November 7. Police launched an appeal to find Mr Robinson, known as Bucky, on November 13.

Speaking at the time, his mother Vivette Robinson said: "It's completely out of character for him not to get in touch with his family and friends, or for him to just vanish like this. We are all very worried about him.

"If anyone knows anything about him or his whereabouts, please call the police or Crimestoppers."

His body was found at the building in Foundry Lane on Thursday at around 11am.

Roads around the area were cordoned off following the discovery. Call Force CID at Harborne police station on 0345 1135000.