A murder probe has been launched in Walsall after a man was allegedly killed in a "targeted and vicious attack" by a group armed with weapons.
The victim, aged in his 20s, is believed to have been set upon by a gang of men in the town centre, near to Asda, at just after 1.20am today.
He was taken to hospital but pronounced dead shortly before 3am, said West Midlands Police.
A large part of the town centre has been sealed off while officers work at the scene. So far, no arrests appear to have been made.
Detective Inspector Laura Harrison, leading the investigation, said: “It’s very early in the investigation, but this appears to be a targeted and vicious attack involving a group of men carrying weapons.
"We’re supporting the victim’s family at this awful time, and are working hard to identify those responsible.
"We’ve already recovered CCTV and continue to work at the scene today."
Extra Section 60 powers will be used by police in the town, enabling officers to stop and search people without the need for specific grounds.
Inspector Jon-Paul Kyffin, of Walsall Police, said: "We’ll have extra officers in Walsall town centre today to offer reassurance.
"I’d ask people planning on travelling into Walsall town centre to think about their journey today as the area around the scene on the High Street is closed while we investigate."
Anyone with CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage showing what happened is urged to get in touch with police quoting log 225 of 28 January, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
