A shopkeeper in Birmingham was violently attacked and robbed after stepping in to assist a neighboring business on Queens Head Road in Handsworth. The incident occurred shortly after midday on Saturday, April 4.
The confrontation began when a man inside the neighboring shop refused to pay for goods and refused staff requests to leave. A woman working at the shop alerted the neighboring business owner, who is also her landlord.
The 67-year-old owner approached the situation to help but was suddenly punched in the face. He was forced to seek hospital treatment for his injuries. During the scuffle, his iPhone fell from his pocket, and the attacker stole it before fleeing the scene.
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The shopkeeper’s daughter, who wished to remain anonymous, described the assault as a “random attack.” She explained that her father owns a shop near Soho Road and also rents space to the business where the incident occurred. The attacker had been aggressive, even pushing staff, and refused to leave when asked.
CCTV footage of the attack reveals the violent nature of the assault, which deeply upset the family. After the attack, the suspect was spotted running through Handsworth Park and later seen walking with a dog along Soho Road.
The victim is deeply concerned not only for his own safety but also for the wellbeing of his tenants and the future of his longstanding business, which has been part of the local community for over 40 years. “It’s just getting worse and worse,” his daughter said.
West Midlands Police are actively investigating the incident. A spokesperson confirmed that the attack happened between 12:15 pm and 12:32 pm and appealed for anyone with information to come forward by calling 101 with the crime reference number 20/202214/26 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.