Traders' shock as West Bromwich murder probe is launched

Traders spoke of their shock today after a murder inquiry was launched following the death of a young woman in West Bromwich.

Ambulance crews were called to a report of a Polish woman who had suffered a head injury at a property in High Street at 3.15am on Monday.

A 32-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman were initially arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm. The victim, also 26, died in hospital yesterday.

The two suspects – also Polish nationals – were then arrested on suspicion of murder.

Today, they continued to help police with their inquiries.

A path running parallel with High Street, connecting Temple Street and Sandwell Road, was yesterday cordoned off while police officers combed the scene for clues.

Sukhdev Shinh, who runs car garage Temple Motors in Temple Street, said: "We are really shocked. For something like this to happen on your doorstep you definitely feel some discomfort."

Asan Khan, owner of newsagents Ghosia Supersave in High Street, said: "It's bad news; shocking. We have never had anything like that happen around here."

He added: "We have asked the police what's going on but they won't tell us anything."

A post-mortem took place yesterday.

Officers have said they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the investigation.

Detective Inspector Gary Dring, from Force CID in Harborne, said: "We are still piecing together the events leading up to this woman's tragic death and are working to establish exactly what happened.

"I am appealing for anyone who has any information about this incident or who believes they may be able to assist with this investigation to contact us."

Anyone with any information should call Force CID on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.