Teen charged with attempted murder in Shirley

An investigation was launched after three boys were attacked outside a shop on Stratford Road, Shirley, at around 9pm last Saturday (7 Feb).

Two boys, aged 15 and 14, were taken to hospital with injuries which we believe were caused by a machete. One boy has life-changing injuries, and remains in hospital, while the second boy is now back home.

Another teenage boy, aged 15, was also assaulted but did not go to hospital.

We arrested a 16-year-old boy on Monday night, and he has now been charged with two counts of attempted murder, assault, and possession of a bladed article.

The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was remanded in custody and is set to appear before Birmingham Magistrates Court today.

Three other boys arrested in connection with the incident have been bailed pending further enquiries into the investigation.

We understand the concern in the community following this serious incident. We have extra officers in the area today and in the coming days to offer reassurance.

Our investigation is continuing and we urge witnesses or anyone with information, such as dashcam or mobile phone footage, to contact us on 101 quoting crime number 20/140175/26.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.