Murder investigation launched after man in 20s shot dead in Walsall, second man also hurt

Dozens of police officers and ambulances descended on a residential area in Walsall on Monday to reports of a shooting. A second man was also injured but his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Police firearms officers, paramedics and a specialist emergency services doctor rushed to Well Lane, close to Frydays Fish and Chips and the junction with Chaucer Road and Walker Road.

A statement from West Midlands Police said: "We received a report just before 5pm that a man had been shot in Well Lane, Walsall. The man, who was in his 20s, sadly died at the scene.

"Another man was also wounded and is receiving treatment to his injuries, which are not life-threatening.

"Officers remain on Well Lane while we conduct forensic examination of the area. We are also speaking to witnesses and reviewing CCTV.

"We understand the alarm these incidents cause. There will be an increased police presence around the area so please talk to officers if you have any concerns.

"Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote log 3637 of July 8."

Police confirmed on Tuesday that three people aged 22, 18 and 17 had been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Forensics officers attended and a forensics tent has been established near a vehicle inside the police cordon.

A statement from the West Midlands Ambulance Service at about 5.30pm said: "We were called to an incident on Well Lane, Bloxwich at 5pm and were on scene in seven minutes. We have ambulances, paramedic officers and a doctor at the scene.

"The incident is still ongoing."

National Express West Midlands said bus services in the area will continue to face disruption on Tuesday as the investigation continues.

It said the number 29 to Bloxwich/Blakenall will divert via Harden Road, Bloxwich Road, Blakenall Lane and Blakenall Heath before following its normal line of route.

In the opposite direction to Walsall, the service will divert via Ingram Road, Blakenall Lane, and the reverse of the above.

Residents nearby reacted with shock and dismay.

Rich Yeoman, who lives in the area, said: "The police need to do something, someone needs to do something.

"It's getting bloody stupid - it's like a ghetto, it's worse. It's horrible."

Rachel Harris, of Leamore, said: "It's so bad here now. It's all the time, shootings, stabbings, people dying all the time.

"It's too much, it's all the bloody time."

David Warren, who lives nearby, said: "It's terrible out here - it's always the same, the police can't do anything.

"What are you supposed to do? It's all crime, it's ridiculous."