Residents speak of shock as man who died following altercation outside West Bromwich pub is named
Residents living close to a West Bromwich pub have spoken of their shock after a man died outside the venue following an altercation.
The victim, named locally as Dean Fletcher, died after disorder outside The Queen Head pub, in Church Lane, late on Friday.
A 46-year-old man arrested on suspicion of manslaughter was bailed yesterday pending further inquires.
Police tape was still visible at the pub yesterday as flowers were left in tribute by friends and family at the scene.
The 61-year-old victim, who is believed to live on the Tantany estate in West Bromwich, was confirmed dead soon after the altercation at just before 11pm.
The scene was immediately sealed off for further investigations.
A post mortem was taking place on Saturday to determine the cause of death but tests proved inconclusive at this stage.
West Midlands Police say further tests will be carried out in due course.
A cordon had been in place outside the pub for several hours on Saturday and detectives began their investigation.
The pub, which is close to alloy wheels manufacturer Rimstock, was closed to customers on Saturday night.
People living nearby spoke of their shock at his death saying he was 'well known' in the area.
A man who lives close to the pub and drinks there said: "Everybody knows everybody round here so Deano will be missed.
"I've been living here for about three years and I've not known anything like this to happen before.
"It's just locals that go to the pub.
"I feel really sorry for his family.
"He was a well-known guy."
Other neighbours said they were surprised when they saw police officers arriving in the road that night near homes.
The victim's family were too upset to speak yesterday.
Tributes were left to the victim on the Express & Star Facebook page including from Chris Hill who wrote "Rest in peace Dean".
Diane Williams also left a message saying: "RIP Deano".
West Midlands Police Detective Inspector Jim Munro said investigations into what had caused the death were continuing.
"We believe there may have been an altercation with another man beforehand and would ask for any witnesses to call me as soon as possible," he said.
Anyone with information can call Force CID on 101.