Father found with fatal head injuries was possibly struck by vehicle in dark Wolverhampton street, inquest told
A businessman found lying on the ground with severe head injuries in a narrow Wolverhampton street was most likely struck by a passing vehicle, an inquest has heard.
Father-of-one Michael Bland was found with blood on his face and not breathing yards from his home by a passer-by in Old Hill, in Tettenhall, shortly after 3.50am on April 28, 2023. Despite the efforts of the emergency services he was confirmed dead at the scene.
The cause of death was given as head injuries.
Giving evidence at the inquest, Home Office forensic pathologist Dr Alexander Kolar said a post-mortem exam found the 49-year-old suffered a traumatic brain injury and skull fractures on the top of his head. The injuries were described as "severe".
Dr Kolar said: "There are two hypotheses I would consider. Firstly, there was interaction with a motor vehicle. Secondly, there was a possible assault. This would be ruling out a simple fall."
