Horror when a man was killed in a city center ambush in an attack by an armed gang and the public was warned to stay away

Police have launched an investigation after a man was killed by an armed gang.

The victim, in her 20s, was attacked in Walsall town center just after 1.20am today.

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Cops believe the “malicious” attack was targeted.

The victim is believed to have been approached by a group of men believed to be armed with guns.

He was taken to the hospital but was pronounced dead just before 3am.

The public is now being urged to stay away from the area as access is restricted.

Det Insp Laura Harrison said: “The investigation is very early on but this appears to be a targeted and vicious attack involving a group of armed men.

“We are supporting the victim’s family at this terrible time and are working hard to identify those responsible.

“We have already restored video surveillance and are continuing to work at the crime scene today.”

Flowers have since been placed along the cordon.

Walsall today has Section 60 powers giving police the power to stop and search anyone.

Insp Jon-Paul Kyffin said: “We will have additional officers in Walsall town center today to offer reassurance.

“I would ask people planning to travel to Walsall town center to reconsider their journey today as the area around the High Street crime scene is closed while we investigate.”

West Midlands Police are attractive to anyone with CCTV, dashcam or cell phone footage.

You can contact us quoting Protocol 225 of January 28th.

Alternatively you can chat at west-midlands.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.