A man has been killed after being attacked with a hammer in a robbery bid for his Rolex watch. The victim, who has been named locally as Darren Smith, was attacked at a popular shopping precinct in Birmingham called Shard End.
Witnesses said dozens of emergency services were at the scene with helicopters seen overhead. Police have confirmed a murder investigation is underway but are keeping an "open mind" into the motive of the attack, the Mirror reports.
One onlooker, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "A 50-year-old bloke has been attacked with a hammer or something similar for his Rolex.
"It was crazy, there were helicopters overhead and dozens of police and ambulances. All this was happening at the end of the school day.
"There were kids around, its terrible. A blue tent has since been set up. It doesn't look good."
Tributes poured in for Darren, also known as 'Wiffa', with friends saying he had a "heart of gold."
One friend wrote on Facebook : "Coming home to the hear the shocking news of Darren Wiffa Smith, his life taken over a personal possession. awful news, rest in peace."
Another person said: "Absolutely gutted, such a great guy.
"I’ve got so many funny memories with you Wiffa until we meet again I will treasure them. Rest in eternal peace."
Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and Midlands Air Ambulance were all called to the scene. A blue tent was erected while children left school.
Police said: "We've started a murder investigation after a man sustained fatal head injuries in Birmingham.
"We were called after a man was found seriously injured after being attacked outside shops in Heath Way, Shard End, just after 2.50pm yesterday."
"The man was sadly confirmed dead shortly afterwards and his family have been informed.
"We'll be supporting them as much as we can at this deeply devastating time."
Police say they currently believe the man was the victim of a robbery and are reviewing CCTV footage in the area.
A West Midlands Ambulance spokesperon added: "We were called at 2.55pm to an incident on Heath Way, Shard End, Birmingham. Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.
"Upon arrival, we found a man in a critical condition. Ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support to him.
"Unfortunately, it became clear that nothing more could be done to save him and he was confirmed deceased."
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
