A two-year-old boy tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run incident in Smethwick, West Midlands, on Saturday night, sparking a police investigation and raising community concerns about illegal street racing. The incident occurred on Dartmouth Road shortly before 11 pm, leaving the toddler dead and two adults, a 30-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman who were in the same vehicle as the child, in serious condition in hospital. The scene was marked with police tape and the remnants of the collision, later becoming a place for mourners to leave tributes, including a teddy bear and flowers. The incident has brought the issue of illegal street racing, often referred to as “drifting,” into sharp focus.

Following the incident, police launched a swift investigation, leading to the arrest of 30-year-old Sharjeel Shahzad. Shahzad has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, driving without insurance, and failing to stop after a collision. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before Birmingham Magistrates’ Court. The charges reflect the severity of the incident and the alleged disregard for road safety displayed by the driver.

The tragedy has reignited long-standing concerns from local residents about the dangers of illegal street racing in the area. Russell George, a local safety consultant, revealed that he had contacted the police just an hour before the fatal collision to report a gathering of racers. He described the scene, with the smell of burning rubber permeating the air as cars performed donuts and other dangerous maneuvers. George has been campaigning for over a decade to end these gatherings, highlighting the inherent risks they pose to the community. His warning, tragically, proved prescient.

The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief and sympathy for the family of the young victim. Social media posts reflect the heartbreak felt by the community, with many expressing condolences and lamenting the loss of such a young life. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the importance of addressing the issue of illegal street racing. The young boy’s death underscores the urgent need for effective measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.

The area where the collision occurred is known for attracting large gatherings of car enthusiasts, often numbering up to 200 vehicles, according to local residents. These gatherings, which often involve drifting and other dangerous driving practices, typically take place near blocks of flats off Kenrick Way on weekends. The frequency and scale of these gatherings have become a significant concern for the community, with residents voicing their fears about the potential for accidents. The recent tragedy tragically validates these concerns, highlighting the urgent need for increased police presence and stricter enforcement of traffic laws.

West Midlands Police are continuing their investigation into the incident and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. They are particularly interested in any footage or photographs that might help piece together the events leading up to the collision. This information is crucial for building a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and ensuring that all those responsible are held accountable. The police are encouraging anyone with relevant information to contact their Serious Collision Investigation Unit via email or phone. This collaborative effort between the police and the community is vital for preventing future tragedies and ensuring the safety of all road users.

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