West Midlands Police have issued a public appeal for the driver and passenger of a blue Vauxhall Meriva involved in a devastating crash in Sparkhill to surrender to authorities. The two men fled the scene, leaving a 22-year-old man severely injured and ultimately dead.
For the first time, officers have released footage capturing the moment the Vauxhall suddenly swerved into the path of an oncoming Audi A4 on Stratford Road near the junctions of Long Street and Ladypool Road. The violent impact drew a crowd of about 40 bystanders, some of whom rushed to assist the victims.
While two occupants of the Vauxhall vanished in the aftermath, the third—a young Birmingham man—succumbed to his injuries. The crash occurred on the night of August 1 but has recently gained renewed attention with a Crimestoppers reward of up to £20,000 offered for information leading to the men involved.
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Det Sgt Paul Hughes, from the force’s traffic collision unit, made an emotional plea: “To those two men: you left your friend behind after this horrific incident. It’s time to do the right thing and come forward.”
Authorities are also urging witnesses who captured photos or videos of the crash or its aftermath to come forward. Some 10 to 40 bystanders were reportedly present during the incident and may hold critical evidence. Despite their helpfulness at the scene, none have contacted the police yet.
Police have been distributing leaflets throughout Sparkhill in the ongoing investigation. The Vauxhall was later found to be displaying false number plates, further complicating the case.
All four occupants of the Audi survived and have cooperated fully with the investigation. However, the identities of the two men who fled in the Vauxhall remain unknown. CCTV footage shows one passenger climbing out and walking away toward the city, while the driver initially sits on the pavement before also leaving the scene.
Det Sgt Hughes emphasized the victim’s family’s wish for privacy during this difficult time and called for community support to bring justice.
Anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.