(JollofNews) – West Midlands Police have launched a murder investigation after a 18-year-old Gambian teenager was stabbed to death in the Northfield area of Birmingham.
Sheriff Mbye, who lives with his parents in Lee Bank, died in hospital a few hours after he received multiple stab wounds in a scuffle which saw another man, 19, also sustain serious stab wounds. That man is currently in a critical condition in hospital.
Police were called to Bristol Road South shortly before 5pm to reports of a stabbing outside a KFC restaurant. When officers arrived they found a 19-year-old in a barber shop being tended to by customers.
As a major investigation was launched,police were alerted to the fact that Mr Mbye had been dropped off outside Queen Elizabeth Hospital in a white Audi which then sped off. The car was later found by police abandoned in Hickman Gardens, Ladywood.
An 18-year-old man from Birmingham has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. Detectives believe a group of other men were involved and they are trying to identify them.
Forensic teams have sealed off part of Bristol Road South in order to search for clues. A post mortem will take place later on Saturday to determine the precise cause of death.
Detective Inspector Harry Harrison, from West Midlands Police said: ‘My condolences go to the family of Sheriff who are heartbroken at losing their loved one.
‘I would like to reassure them that many people who were in the area at the time responded admirably to the terrible situation which confronted them. Both victims were tended to, details of possible people or vehicles involved were relayed to police and vital clues were guarded. Their assistance has been invaluable to our investigation.
‘I’d also thank those people who have helped us so far and ask that others follow their lead by doing the right thing. If you were in the area at the time, and you have not yet spoken to police, please do so now. You may have seen the actual stabbings or the argument and scuffle beforehand. You could have possibly seen the Audi arriving at the scene or racing away after the attack. If you did, you need to call us immediately. This will have been a very frightening situation to witness but we are very experienced at supporting people who are worried about giving information. Anyone with relevant information should call police on 101. Information can also be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Meanwhile, Gambians are using Facebook to pay tribute to the 18-year-old.
Yamsingirl Jobe said: “Rest in perfect peace my dear cousin Sherriff. Life is too short for you but Allah knows why. May the Almighty Allah grant you all the way to paradise and forgive you all your sins.You are gone but never be forgotten in our prayers and dreams. Love you always till we meet again.”
And Marian Forster Sowe said: “My condolences to you and your entire family. May the Almighty Allah grant him eternal rest.”
Another Gambian, Ida Camara, wrote: “Rest in peace my dearest son.”
