Pensioner found hurt in Smethwick street dies
An elderly man has died in hospital after being found lying in a road with serious injuries. Police believe he may have been hit by a car.
The man, believed to be aged in his 70s, was found in Beakes Road, Smethwick, at around 9.30pm on Saturday. He was taken to hospital where he later died.
Police were today trying to piece together events leading up to his death and are looking at the possibility that he was hit by a vehicle.
His relatives have been informed and are currently being supported by specialist family liaison officers.
Flowers left at the scene name the man as 'Bill' and nearby neighbours today named him as William Fenton.
One floral tribute said: "Thinking of you Bill. Rest in peace. Gone but never forgot. Love from friends and neighbours. God Bless."
Neighbour Joan Thompson, aged 66, described him as a man who would help anybody with anything.
She said: "If you wanted any sugar or anything he would buy it bulk so he would always have some. He was a smashing bloke and I still can't get over it. He was a nice person, we didn't really know that much about him but he was just a nice chap and always friendly. We are still in shock."
Neighbour and friend Mary Price, aged 67, said she would miss him. "He was a quiet chap but he would do anything to help us," she said. "He used to go down to the shop every day for his newspaper and he would pick up the bargains before coming back and asking if we needed anything."
Officers today urged any witnesses to come forward. Sgt Paul Hughes, from the regional collision investigation unit, said: "I would appeal directly to anyone with any information, no matter how small it may seem, to call myself or any member of my team, or anonymously contact Crimestoppers, and let us take that worry from you."
Anyone with information should call the regional collision investigation unit on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
