Armed police on Wolverhampton streets as Keelan Wilson murder probe gathers pace
Extra armed police officers will patrol Wolverhampton this weekend, as police continue to investigate the murder of schoolboy Keelan Wilson.
The armed patrols will be operating around the city to reassure residents after 15-year-old Keelan was stabbed to death just yards from his home on Tuesday night.
Officers were also granted temporary powers to give them the ability to stop and search people they suspect may be involved in crime or carrying weapons.
Police launched a murder investigation into Keelan's death in Strathfield Walk, Merry Hill.
The former Castlefields Primary School and Highfields School pupil was taken to hospital with serious injuries, but was confirmed dead a short time later.
A post-mortem has confirmed Keelan died from stab wounds.
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Police are carrying out CCTV trawls, have sent items for forensic testing and have already spoken to a number of people who have given information.
They also confirmed they were searching an area of grassland in Leasowes Drive as part of their on-going investigation.
Chief Inspector Karen Geddes, of Wolverhampton Police, said: "We continue to support Keelan’s family through their unimaginable grief, while detectives continue to work around the clock to bring those responsible to justice.
“The deployment of armed officers is not a decision we take lightly, but one that demonstrates our commitment to keeping the streets of the city safe.
“Our officers will be approachable and I’d urge people to speak to them when they see them out and about to raise any concerns they have with them."
In an incident which is not being linked to the murder, officers are investigating reports of shots being fired in Shelley Road, in Fordhouses, on Thursday night.
No one is thought to have been injured and no property was damaged.
Chief Inspector Geddes added: "We are aware of tensions between groups in some parts of the city.
"We are getting a better understanding of the reasons behind that, and intervening and making arrests where appropriate."
Officers were also using section 60 powers in Bushbury and Whitmore Reans until 7am on Saturday – which gives them the power to stop and search people they suspect may be involved in violence, without the need to have reasonable grounds.
Anyone with information that could help West Midlands Police with their investigation can call Detective Inspector Warren Hines on 101, or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
