Karl Swift murder probe: Shock at 'absolutely tragic' death of man found in Halesowen road

A murder probe was launched after Karl Swift, aged 33, died in hospital on Saturday.

He was discovered on New Road, with serious injuries,at around 12.30am on Friday.

Detectives are now treating the death of Mr Swift, who is from South Yorkshire, as murder.

Two men from the South Yorkshire area, aged 23 and 58, were arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm yesterday.

The pair have since been bailed pending further investigation by police.

A post mortem will be held on Tuesday.

Police believe that an incident may have taken place at the nearby William Shenstone Wetherspoon's pub, in Queensway, shortly before the attack.

Detectives have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward and are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the pub on Thursday evening.

An area of New Road was cordoned off whilst forensic experts examined the scene at the weekend..

Detective Inspector Warren Hines, from West Midlands Police CID, said: "Our investigation is progressing and while we have now made two arrests we still need to speak to any witnesses who were in the area late on Thursday night into Friday morning.

"We still believe there may have been an incident at the William Shenstone Wetherspoon's pub in Halesowen prior to the victim leaving and we would ask anyone with information to call 101 as soon as possible.

"Alternatively information can be passed to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."

See also: Murder probe launched after man dies in hospital

Eddie Gershon, spokesperson for JD Wetherspoon, said: "We are fully aware of the situation.

"This is very sad news that a gentleman has lost his life and we extend our condolences to his family and friends. We will now be working closely with the police to help assist them in any way we can and provide CCTV footage if need be."

Councillor Alan Taylor, who represents the Halesowen South ward, spoke of his shock at the tragedy.

He said: "This is absolutely tragic and I feel for the family and friends who are now left facing this.

"Halesowen is usually a safe and quiet town and something like this hasn't happened in a long time.

"To my knowledge this would only be about the second time in six to eight years that something as shocking has happened in the town. It is a respectful area and people look after each other.

"Every time you hear something like this has happened in the Black Country, regardless of the circumstances, it leaves you incredibly sad.

"Not knowing the full extent of the situation yet we can only hope that the police investigation gets those responsible."

New Road is a one-way road into the town centre, linking on Rumbow and the island near Earls High School. It is situated minutes away from the High Street which runs into the town and The Cornbow Shopping Centre.

A local businessman, who did wish to be named but has worked in the town for more than 10 years, said: "I am in shock and very sad to hear this.

"From my experience of working here and near to Wetherspoon's - it is always a nice pub where you go and have a quiet drink."

Debbie Morris, from Stourbridge, added: "I dread to think what goes on for something like this to happen and for someone's life to be taken.

"It's just so sad."