Birmingham stabbings: Man, 27, arrested on suspicion of murder following attack

Attacks on Sunday in city centre resulted in one death and seven other people sustaining injuries

A forensics officer investigates the scene of a stabbing in Birmingham (EPA)

A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following a spate of knife attacks in Birmingham, police have said.

A spokesperson for the West Midlands Police said: “We’ve arrested a man on suspicion of murder and seven counts of attempted murder over a series of stabbings in Birmingham.

“The suspect was detained at an address in Selly Oak at around 4am after our detectives worked through the night in a bid to catch the man responsible.”

The man remains in police custody for questioning.

Officers and paramedics were called to reports of a knife attack at about 12.30am on Sunday in Birmingham city centre, with further stabbing reported later.

Police declared a major incident over the attacks. A 23-year-old man, since named as Jacob Billington, suffered fatal injuries, while a man and a woman, aged 19 and 32 respectively, suffered serious stab wounds and remain in critical condition in hospital.

Five other people, aged between 23 and 33, were also hurt, but sustained less serious injuries.

In a statement issued through police, Mr Billington's family said: "Jacob was the light of our life and we have been devastated by his loss. He was a funny, caring and wonderful person who was loved by every single person he met.

“He lit up every room with his boundless energy and witty humour and the loss of such a special person will be felt by all who knew him for years to come.”

(West Midlands Police/AFP via Get)

Birmingham Police commander, Chief Superintendent Steve Graham, said: “Clearly this is a crucial development but our investigation continues. We still need to speak to any witnesses who saw what happened who’ve not yet spoken to us, or anyone who may have video footage or photos of the incidents or the attacker.

“We have a hotline number and a dedicated web page where you can submit information, photos and videos.”