Boy, 16, in hospital after 'machete' attack in Smethwick
A 16-year-old boy is in hospital after being attacked with what is believed to be a machete in Smethwic. There were also reports of gunshots being fired.
The victim suffered head injuries and superficial wounds to his leg in the incident in Unett Street on Wednesday.
Police are looking for six men in connection with attack. Two of them fled the scene in a car, officers say.
The boy's bag and mobile phone were also stolen in the attack.
West Midlands Police say the victim's injuries are not thought to be life threatening or life changing.
It marks the third knife-related incident Smethwick in 10 days.
Karl Gallagher was stabbed to death in the town last Sunday, while another man was attacked with a machete at a petrol station the day after.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "A 16-year-old boy has been taken to hospital with head injuries and superficial wounds to his leg after being attacked, possibly with a machete, in Unett Street, Smethwick, in the early hours of this morning. Reports were also received of gunshots being heard.
"The boy’s injuries are not thought to be life threatening or life changing and detectives are now looking for up to six men, two of whom made off in a car, having stolen the victim’s bag and mobile phone."
"Enquiries continue."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police, quoting crime reference number 20SW/105090K/20.
Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org
