Murder probe on death of pensioner

An elderly woman has died after suffering head injuries at a house in Smethwick today, sparking a murder inquiry. A man has been arrested in connection with the death.

He was taken into custody this morning and is helping police with their inquiries.

The ambulance service was called to Thimblemill Road shortly before 9am to reports of a "collapse".

On arrival they discovered a woman, thought to be in her 70s with serious injuries. The pensioner died at the scene.

A 50m police cordon was set up along Thimblemill Road, this morning at its junction with Hillfields.

Jaspreet Jagdev, spokeswoman for West Midlands Police said: "We were called at 9am to a report of a female unconscious with serious head injuries at an address in Thimblemill Road in Smethwick.

"The woman later died at the scene and police are in the early stages of an investigation.

"One man is in custody helping police with their inquiries."

She confirmed a murder investigation was under way.

Police and ambulance crews were still at the scene at midday.

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact officers at Smethwick police station on 084511 35000.