Neighbours tell of shock over Smethwick murder

A road was closed in Smethwick and a house was being searched, while officers were also carrying out house to house inquiries after the death of the man, who has not yet been named. He was found collapsed in Brook Street in the early hours of yesterday and was taken to hospital, where he later died.

Five people have been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with the incident.

Nearby residents today spoke of their shock at the death.

Retired painter and decorator Robert Payne, aged 68, of Brook Street, said: "It is terrible, especially for the person who has died.

"It's quite quiet here, everybody keeps themselves to themselves.

"You don't wish that on anybody."

Pool Road resident and care assistant Mercy Gohoho had discovered the scene when she arrived home yesterday morning.

The 32-year-old said: "I got a phone call from my brother to say the road was blocked, and that was when I knew something had happened.

"When I saw the tent, I knew it was something bad. I feel very shocked."

Factory worker Ash Ashrun, 37, from Chamberlain Walk, said: "I heard about it at about 11am and saw the road was closed.

"I feel very bad, it's normally quiet here."

Sandra Westwood, 65, from Stone Cross in West Bromwich, was visiting her daughter Dawn, who lives nearby. Ms Westwood, said: "It is a big shock for the area."

Brook Street was closed yesterday afternoon between Crocketts Lane and Victoria Park Road while forensic investigations were being carried out at the scene.

A blue forensic tent stood at the scene, while officers were also carrying out inquiries inside a property in Brook Street. The area which included the tent and the house being searched were all inside the cordon.

Police at the scene yesterday carried out door to door inquiries, and reassurance patrols were also taking place in the area.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.