Murder inquiry police find body of second teenager and a gun near canal

The body of a boy believed to be 17 was found on Friday, five days after a 16-year-old suffered fatal injuries in a shooting nearby.

Police said the investigation will continue (PA) (PA Wire)

Detectives investigating the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy five days ago have discovered the body of a second teenager near the murder scene.

West Midlands Police said the “tragic development” saw officers find the body and a gun on land next to a canal in the Ladywood area of Birmingham.

The force said in a statement: “The body was found at around 10.30am today by officers who were carrying out searches as part of the investigation into the death of a teenager who was shot at an address in Lighthorne Avenue, Ladywood, last Sunday.

“The body found today, on land next to a canal on Lighthorne Avenue, is believed to be that of a 17-year-old boy.

This is a tragic development in our investigation, and our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by the events of the last week

Detective Superintendent Shaun Edwards

“The discovery is being linked to the murder of the 16-year-old.

“At this time we are not looking for anyone else as part of our investigation into the death of the 17-year-old.

“A gun was found at the same time and in the same area as the body found today and will be forensically examined.”

A third person, a 17-year-old boy, was arrested as part of the initial murder investigation earlier this week.

He remains on bail while police establish the circumstances of the first death, and he has not been arrested in connection with the second death.

Detective Superintendent Shaun Edwards said: “This is a tragic development in our investigation and our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by the events of the last week.

“Our investigation into what has happened will continue for some time, and we will be supporting the families involved throughout.

“Neighbourhood officers continue to patrol the area to offer reassurance, and I’d encourage anyone with information to get in touch with us.”