A 16-year-old boy named Zane Smart was fatally stabbed in the chest on Friday afternoon, 27 May, in Pendeford. The tragic incident took place outside Pendeford Fish Bar, leaving his family devastated and seeking justice.
Zane’s family described him as “much loved by us all” and made a heartfelt plea for anyone with information to come forward. They said: “Words cannot describe the unbearable loss we feel as Zane’s family. He was a brother, son, grandson, and nephew who was deeply loved. While the world keeps turning, ours has come to a halt. We’re trapped in a nightmare, robbed by yet more knife crime.”
They added, “We want him remembered as the funny, loving boy he truly was, with an infectious dimpled smile that lit up any room. Zane, you were the kindest soul. We love you deeply and will never stop standing by you.”
The family urged, “If you saw or heard anything, or have Snapchats or videos of the incident, please send them anonymously to the police. Your help could save another life and bring justice to Zane.”
Zane was among a group standing outside Pendeford Fish Bar, located at The Haymarket, around 3.40pm on 27 May. Police are keen to identify everyone who was present to help piece together the events leading to the stabbing.
A Snapchat video showing parts of the attack has emerged and is considered vital to the ongoing investigation. Authorities are urging anyone who has the video or knows which accounts shared it to come forward immediately.
A 16-year-old boy has been charged with Zane’s murder and is due to appear at Wolverhampton magistrates court on 31 May. Meanwhile, a 46-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released pending further enquiries.
Police searches at the scene and the nearby canal have now been completed, with cordons lifted.
Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police is urged to contact them urgently via Live Chat or email [email protected]. To remain completely anonymous, people can call Crimestoppers quoting reference 2838 of 27/05/22.
For more information on how to help fight knife crime, visit Life or Knife. Knife crime continues to tear communities apart. Help stop the bloodshed and speak up for Zane.
Originally published by UKNIP.
