Police in Birmingham arrest boy aged 14 in connection with the murder of 15-year-old

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 15-year-old was ambushed and killed in Birmingham by a gang witnesses claimed were armed with guns and knives.

The victim, who has been named by police as Keon Lincoln, died after being attacked by a group of youths in broad daylight in the Handsworth area on Thursday afternoon.

Witnesses said the gang who set about the teenager were armed with knives and they also claim to have heard shots fired during the attack.

Keon was rushed to hospital but he was declared dead a short time later and police said a post mortem examination was yet to take place.

The alleged attackers fled in a white car which later crashed into a house around two miles away in the Lozells district of the city.

West Midlands Police said their investigation was moving at a fast pace and they confirmed that a 14-year-old boy was arrested on Friday morning on suspicion of murder.

Paying tribute to Keon, his family said he was a "fun-loving" teenager who "lit up a room with his laugh".

In a statement issued by police, they said: "It is with profound grief that we announce the passing of our beloved Keon, who was senselessly taken from us on Thursday 21st January.

"Keon was a fun loving 15-year-old who was full of life and love for his family and friends.

"He had an infectious laugh that lit up the room whenever he was in it.

"The family is grateful for the kind support from everyone.

"We seek the public assistance from everyone. We seek the public assistance in sharing any information that will help the police bring justice for Keon and closure for his family.

"Again we thank you for your support and kindly ask us for privacy as we grieve this devastating loss."

Detective Chief Inspector Alastair Orencas, of West Midlands Police, said: "The death of Keon has shocked the whole community and we have increased our patrols in the area.

"We are determined to apprehend those responsible for his death and bring them to justice, so I would personally appeal to anyone who is withholding information out of misguided loyalty to the offenders, to come forward.

"A teenage boy has died in the most violent of circumstances and we urge you to give us any information you have."

Referring to the arrest he added: "Our investigation has progressed at pace and this arrest is a positive step forward as we try to establish exactly what happened on Thursday afternoon.

“My thoughts are with the boy's family, who are being supported by specialist family liaison officers at this incredibly sad and difficult time.

"We're doing all we can to fully understand what took place. Violence like this on our streets is heartbreaking and deeply concerning.

"I'd urge anyone who saw anything or has any information to contact us as soon as possible."

Locals in the Handsworth area expressed their deep shock at the incident

A resident of Linwood Road said she had not been at home at the time of the incident, but was shocked to hear someone had been killed.

The NHS worker, who did not give her name, said: "We've lived here 45 years and I've never heard of anything like this.

"It's just shocking and really, really sad.”