Smethwick murder probe: Teen stabbing victim named as Jamar Walker

Police have launched a murder investigation after Jamar was found with stab wounds in the early hours of Sunday.

Detectives say they believe the attack happened after a 'fracas' in the street and are appealing for witnesses to get in touch.

Jamar, who was living in Handsworth, was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and later died.

A post mortem revealed this was as a result of a stab injury to his upper leg.

The attack happened in Raglan Road near Cape Hill Medical Centre at around 2.20am.

A heavy police presence remained at the scene today where Jamar was found.

Police say a 17-year-old boy also suffered a minor stab injury to his lower back and was treated at hospital before being released.

The Puffing Billy pub remained cordoned off today as forensic teams combed the car park for clues.

Detective Inspector Warren Hines from Force CID said: "It is believed there was some sort of fracas in the street which led to one teenager tragically losing his life and another being injured.

"Enquiries are on-going, we are looking at CCTV and forensic investigations are taking place at the scene.

"I would urge anyone who was around the Raglan Road area at the time please get in touch.

Neighbourhood officers remain on patrol in the area as the investigation continues.

People living by the pub told of their shock at hearing of the violence.

One neighbour, who asked not be named, described dramatic scenes as paramedics and security staff from the pub tried to save the boy's life.

He said: "When I came home there were cars parked everywhere. I saw an ambulance bed and there were people around the ambulance. There was blood on the floor.

"There were a few people helping. Security guards from the Puffing Billy and someone who was driving past tried to help."

Another resident Gulali Safi said: "I heard screaming but I thought it was just from a party. It was only the next day when I saw all the police I found out what happened.

"There was police everywhere and the road was closed. It is scary."

Murder detectives have begun scouring CCTV footage and have appealed for anyone who was in the area at the time and may be able to help the investigation to come forward.

Evadney Fisher, aged 71, who lives in Willis Walk, which runs beside the pub, said: "It is a sad thing, my heart goes out to the family."

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