West Midlands Police are actively searching for two men believed to be involved in a violent attempted robbery at a Co-op store on Quinton Road West, which resulted in a man sustaining critical injuries.
A nearby business owner reported that the injured man was “left for dead” after suffering a severe leg wound. Witnesses claim the victim was dragged through the Co-op’s glass front door during the incident.
Emergency services, including police officers, paramedics, and the air ambulance, were dispatched to the scene at approximately 4:15 pm on Tuesday, 18 August. The man was found with serious injuries and received advanced trauma care from medical staff before being transported urgently to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where he remains in a serious but stable condition.
READ MORE: Thousands Raised to Support Children Following Death of Dedicated Midland Police Officer
The Co-op store has since reopened after repairs to the damaged glass door were completed.
Marc Smith, proprietor of Tytan Tanning Studio located nearby, described the distressing scene. He shared, “My wife witnessed the incident and went to assist. She described it as horrific. The assailants caused significant damage before fleeing, leaving the victim behind.”
West Midlands Police confirmed their ongoing investigation on Thursday, 20 August. A spokesperson stated, “We are investigating a reported robbery at the Co-op store on Quinton Road West. A man was found with serious leg injuries and remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.”
A Co-op Food representative commented, “We are aware of a serious incident at our Quinton store involving an injury to a member of the public. We are cooperating fully with West Midlands Police and cannot provide further comment while the investigation continues.”
Following the incident, the parade of shops, including Mr Smith’s business, was temporarily closed as police secured the area. The cordon has since been reduced to the immediate vicinity of the store.
Mr Smith noted ongoing issues at the location, “The Co-op is frequently targeted for thefts. We sympathise deeply with the staff who face these challenges regularly.”
Local resident and customer Liz Mooney expressed concern for the store employees, “The Co-op staff are lovely people; it must have been terrifying for them.”
Suraj Dhillon, owner of nearby B&G Off Licence, echoed sentiments of unease, “It’s frightening not knowing who might enter your shop. We always ensure two people are present for safety. This incident is terrible for everyone involved, especially the victim.”
West Midlands Police emphasised that the inquiry is in its early stages and urged anyone with relevant information to come forward. They can be contacted via Live Chat on the police website or by calling 101, quoting log 3882 of 18 August.