Murder Inquiry Launched Over Birmingham Shooting

19 August 2013, 18:15 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

A murder inquiry's been launched after a man who was shot outside a Birmingham nightclub earlier this month, has died.

Sylvester Koroma (pictured) was rushed to hospital after he sustained gunshot wounds to the abdomen outside the Rainbow Warehouse on Digbeth High Street late on Saturday 10 August.

Local officers supported by firearms teams, the force helicopter, police dogs and detectives from Force CID immediately responded after being alerted at 11.47pm.

The 35-year-old remained in hospital, receiving treatment for his injuries, but despite the efforts of medical staff he died in hospital on Sunday the 18th of August.

Sylvester, who was from Leicester, had been attending a club night at the Rainbow Warehouse prior to the attack. His family is being supported by specially trained liaison officers as detectives from the force’s Major Investigation Team make enquiries into his death.

Sylvester’s family today released the following statement: “Sylvester was a kind, gentle loving father, brother, son and friend.

“He was a very happy person, who always lit the room up with his smile. Sylvester always lived life to the fullest and was admired and respected by many. He warmed the hearts of anyone he knew and will be truly missed.”

Sylvester’s death is being treated as murder and a team of detectives are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the attack.

Two men were arrested at the scene following the incident, whilst a further man and a woman were arrested by detectives on Thursday in connection with the shooting. All four have been bailed with strict conditions while enquires continue.

DCI Sab Johal, from Force CID, is leading the police inquiry. He said: “We have spoken to several people who were at the nightclub and in the area of the shooting that fateful night, but we still believe there are many more who are yet to come forward.

“We want to speak to all those who were in attendance at the Rainbow Warehouse and who saw what happened in the lead up to Sylvester being shot.

“The motive for the shooting remains unclear but initial enquiries indicate this was a targeted attack.

"If we are to understand why this shooting occurred and bring those responsible before the courts, I need anyone who was in the area at the time and has not yet spoken to police to get in touch.

"I would like to reassure anyone who has worries of any sorts that stops them coming forward and speaking to the police, that we can support them in many ways to address those fears."

Anyone with information which may aid the investigation should call the incident room on 0121 626 7191. Alternatively, people who do not want to speak with police officers directly can contact the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.