Mistaken Identity: Pub Shooting In Yardley

The family of a man fatally shot in a Birmingham pub have paid tribute to him.

Marlon O'Reilly aged 33 was killed as he sat in the Dove Cote pub in Cockshut Hill, Sheldon on the afternoon of Friday the 10th May. Police believe that Marlon was the tragic victim of mistaken identity.

His cousin Hayley O'Reilly said the father of two's death had left a chasm in their hearts:"Marlon was a loving father, son, brother and friend. The loss of Marlon has devastated our family, as well as everyone who was close to him. Marlon will be sorely missed by us all. The chasm left in our hearts is immeasurable, as this person who meant so much to us, and brought so much fun, laughter and happiness, has been taken away in such a brutal fashion.''

''We thank everyone for their condolences, and hope justice will be served to whoever is responsible for this callous act."

Officers were called to the pub at 5.46pm on Friday to a report of shots being fired. When they arrived the 33-year-old had sustained severe injuries and unfortunately died at this scene.

Chief Supt Alex Murray from Birmingham East police said: "Marlon was enjoying a Friday evening drink with his friends when he was shot. We believe at this stage that Marlon was targeted by mistake by the gunman. Enquiries are ongoing to trace the man, described as being white, well built with short dark cropped hair and wearing blue clothing."

The offender left the scene on a high powered motorbike which drove off towards The Meadway, Sheldon.

Chief Supt Murray said: "We believe the intended victim of the shooting was also in the pub at the same time and he is currently being safe guarded by police."

Police have also revealed that the shooting is being connected to an earlier incident on Friday at the GA Gym in Garrets Green Lane. Police were called to an affray at the gym involving a number of people. One man was treated for slash wounds and two men were arrested and bailed in connection with the incident.

Chief Supt Murray said: "We are connecting the murder with the earlier dispute at the gym on Friday. It is known that Marlon was not a member of this gym and was not involved in the affray."

He added: "We are currently investigating a number of lines of inquiry and have conducted house to house, forensic searches of the scene and continue to trawl CCTV for clues, but we still need people to come forward.

Family liaison officers continue to offer support to the family at this sad time."

Any witnesses or anyone with information about what happened should speak to officers at the scene or call police on 101.

Anyone who doesn't want to speak to a police officer directly can call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.