Man shot dead 'victim of targeted attack'

Officers were called to Eastfield Grove in Wolverhampton on Tuesday afternoon

A man shot dead in Wolverhampton is believed to have been the victim of a targeted attack, police say.

Officers were called to Eastfield Grove at about 15:20 GMT on Tuesday.

The victim, a man in his 20s, died at the scene.

West Midlands Police have now confirmed a second man was injured in the shooting and was receiving treatment in hospital.

The force, which said it has launched a major investigation, has urged people with mobile phone, doorbell or dashcam footage from around the time of the shooting to contact them.

"We appreciate that the location is very close to local schools and our officers and partners have been in regular contact with the school to offer support, advice and guidance, a spokesperson said.

Pat McFadden MP said he was "shocked" to hear of the shooting in his constituency

"Detectives and local officers have been in the area this afternoon to speak with parents who may have witnessed part of yesterday's events or may have been affected by the incident."

Nearby Eastfield Primary School was put into lockdown as a precaution following the shooting, as it happened at the end of the school day as pupils were preparing to go home, the city council confirmed.

A spokesperson said the lockdown stayed in place for 40 minutes to "ensure the safety of pupils and staff".

Pat McFadden, MP for Wolverhampton South East, said he was "shocked" to hear of the shooting in his constituency and urged people to help police "in any way they can" to assist the investigation.

"The community has to be reassured, because they are in a state of shock after such a violent murder in our local streets," he said.

Police advised people to avoid the area on Wednesday as road closures remained in place

Police have also set up a dedicated online portal, on which people can send in any information or video or images.

And extra high-visibility patrols are being carried out in the area by the force.

Paramedics were also called to the scene on Tuesday, West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed.

"On arrival, crews found a man receiving CPR," a spokesperson said.

"Medics immediately administered advanced trauma care but sadly, despite everyone's best efforts, he could not be saved and was confirmed dead at the scene."

In a statement, Safer Wolverhampton Partnership said: "This shocking incident is one that is not reflective of our city, and our thoughts are with the victim's family and friends at this time.

"The Safer Wolverhampton Partnership is committed to tackling crime in all its forms, and to making our streets safer.

"Police officers are carrying out high-visibility patrols in the area to reassure and support the local community."

They also urged anyone with information to contact police in confidence as soon as possible.