Knife crime: The families devastated by deadly weapons in the West Midlands
We're shining a light on what has been described as an 'epidemic' in our region.
Last updated 17th Apr 2024
After a spate of fatal stabbings in the West Midlands since the start of 2024, we're shining a light on the devastation caused by knife crime.
Figures from West Midlands Police show, on average over the last five years, one person has been stabbed to death nearly every fortnight in our region.
In 2023, 20 people lost their lives in knife attacks - the youngest being 16.
Amid these shocking statistics are real people, whose lives have changed forever because of knife crime.
We're bringing together families from across the West Midlands - who have lost loved ones - to share their stories, and their efforts to help tackle the root causes.
"I still live with the shock"
Ronan Kanda, 16, was stabbed to death just yards away from his home in Wolverhampton in 2022.
He was returning from a friend's house, when he was attacked from behind, in a case of mistaken identity.
Two 17-year-olds - who bought the deadly weapon used to stab Ronan online - were jailed for his murder.
Ronan's mum, Pooja Kanda, shares her story:
'We're unable to move on'
James Brindley was stabbed to death as he was on his way home from a night out in Aldridge in 2017.
He was stabbed in the heart, and underwent surgery at the scene, but sadly died.
Ammar Kahrod, 17 at the time of the attack, was sentenced to a minimum of 18 years for murder.
James' dad Mark Brindley, shares his story:
Just three months into 2024 , we've seen a number of fatal stabbings in the West Midlands - with three young people among those who've lost their lives.
Isaac Brown, 15
Isaac Brown was stabbed in New Square, West Bromwich on 7 April. The 15-year-old died at the scene.
Two teenagers, aged 13 and 17 from Smethwick, have been charged with his murder.
Isaac's family described him as a “wonderful, loving, kind, happy son, brother, grandson, nephew and cousin” who was “fun and mischievous, always smiling and always there to help”.
Harleigh Hepworth, 17
Harleigh Hepworth was stabbed in West Park, Wolverhampton on 7 March. The 17-year-old was found in a critical condition by paramedics and died shortly afterwards.
Two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, have been charged with his murder.
Harleigh's friends and family said he was "a funny, cracking, handsome young lad that was taken far too soon from us.”
Muhammad Hassam Ali, 17
Muhammad Hassam Ali was stabbed in Victoria Square, Birmingham on 20 January. The 17-year-old later died from his injuries.
A 15-year-old boy has been charged with his murder.
Police: 'can't solve this alone'
Latest figures from West Midlands Police show the number of fatal stabbings the force has investigated since 2019.
On average, over the last five years, one person has been fatally stabbed almost fortnightly in our region.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: “Carrying a knife is never the right thing to do. There are serious, life-changing consequences for people who make the choice to carry one.
“Every time you do, you run the risk of arrest, or being involved in a serious crime which can have deadly consequences. It can ruin your life, and the lives of countless others who may be affected by your actions.
“The police can’t solve this issue on our own. This is a shared responsibility across the West Midlands, and policing works closely with partners through the Violence Reduction Partnership.
“This means together we can focus on the causes of violence and the reasons why young people get drawn into a life of crime to deter and divert young people from criminal and anti-social activities.
“Our work is ongoing and it’s important we all play a part in continuing to reduce violence.”
Support
There are a number of groups and organisations who offer support to bereaved families, as well anti-knife crime advice and guidance for parents, carers and schools.
You can find some of those here:
West Midlands Police - Life or Knife