CCTV appeal to trace passer-by in alleyway murder investigation

Jagdev Lally was rushed to hospital after a passer-by found him collapsed off High Street, Smethwick, at around 9am on April 14.

West Midlands Police believe the 39-year-old, of no fixed address, was attacked earlier at around 3am and suffered significant head and facial injuries.

He died in hospital nearly three weeks later on May 1.

Ashley Pace was previously charged with wounding and the 34-year-old, also of no fixed address, was remanded by the courts.

The charged has since been reviewed and has been changed to murder.

West Midlands Police are now appealing to identify a man, captured on CCTV footage, who they believe may hold vital information about Mr Lally's death.

Footage was taken covering the Tollgate Shopping Centre at 7.05am, around two hours before Mr Lally was found.

Police believe he was likely on his way to work and may have seen Mr Lally lying on the ground.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "We understand the image is grainy, but if you recognise him, or were around the area at the time, we are urging you to contact us."

It comes as Mr Lally's devastated family have paid tribute to him.

In a statement released on Thursday, they said: "Jagdev was a loving father, son and brother.

“He was the sole provider for his parents in India, who are now totally lost without him. They, his son or sisters, will never see him again.

“We need answers as to why someone would carry out this attack.

"We hope justice is served on the assailant so they realise what pain they have caused Jagdev and his family.

“To be taken at such a young age is difficult enough, but for it to be under such tragic circumstances is heartbreaking.”

Anyone with information is urged to call DC Craig Bathgate or DS Darren Brown directly, by calling West Midlands Police on 101, quoting log number 4039 of April 20.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.