Police Appeal for Information
Thieves stabbed a homeowner in the stomach with a screwdriver after he disturbed them breaking into his shed.
But it’s believed one of the teen burglars − who stole lengths of copper piping during the burglary in West Heath’s Willetts Road − may have been bitten by the resident’s pet dog as he fled and police are now appealing for help to trace him.
The 35-year-old householder, an ambulance technician, challenged the thieves in the garden of his home at 8.15pm on November 5 before one grabbed a screwdriver from the shed and lunged at him.
He was seriously hurt, having suffered a perforated stomach, and spent several days in hospital after undergoing surgery.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Paul Read said: “It was a completely unnecessary attack as the pair could have ran off and left the man unhurt. He suffered a nasty stomach wound and, though he’s made a full recovery, it could have been much worse. And all this for a few lengths of copper piping worth just a few pounds…it’s senseless.
“The thieves are understood to be in their mid- to late-teens and either white or light-skinned Asian lads. One of them fell over during the scuffle and landed by the dog; we believe he may have been bitten on the calf though it can’t be confirmed − if anyone knows someone around this age who had a bite-type injury last month then I’d urge them to contact me.
“I believe the offenders will be local to the West Heath area so if anyone has information about the burglary, or has overheard anyone talking about the attack, I’d appeal for them to get in touch.”
Both offenders scaled a garden fence following the attack and ran off into Treeside Way.
One is described as a white or light-skinned Asian male, 16-17 years old, skinny build, 5ft 6ins tall; he was wearing a dark beanie hat. His associate was slightly taller and spoke with a local accent.
Anyone with information, or suspects who may have been involved, is urged to call DC Read at Force CID in Harborne on the 101 police number. Alternatively they can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
