Walsall shot live as a man left for dead and a murder investigation launched

Our reporter at the scene said: “The helicopter drone buzzes overhead as the police helicopter circles. The helicopter now moves much more slowly overhead, like those in it, perhaps scanning what’s below.”

The crowd is thinning slightly, but there is still a core of people nearby on the opposite side of Wells Lane. Light spots or rain are becoming more persistent now

There is some semblance of activity on the sides of the main Wells Lane as the two surrounding roads have been opened. The Oak supermarket has its doors open and lights on, but no one is allowed in as it is in the cordon and yards from where the incident took place.

Our reporter said: “I count 10 marked police cars now. Two forensic police vans. A large group is still gathered near Wells Lane. Traffic is now moving along nearby roads, so the silence is now replaced by vehicles. While some roads have reopened, Wells Lane, where the van is located, remains the focus of police activity.

An unmarked police car now drove off with blue lights flashing.

Police cordons blocking Walker Road and Chaucer Road have been lifted. A cordon remains on Wells Lane.

Police cordon seen from Well Lane.

A number of forensic officers were seen arriving at the cordon.

Our reporter describes the scene: “Among those gathered are parents with small children. Older people. It was as if the entire community was in shock and disbelief. There is a quiet murmur, but very quiet. Punctuated by children talking apparently not knowing the gravity of what happened”.

The Oak Supermarket and Oak Fish Bar are in the secluded area. The chip shop is not open. The store is there, but people can’t access it.

Police vans are also at the scene.

One person wrote on Facebook: “Just saw the police. I live around the corner – honestly, things just get worse and worse around here.”

Police continue to work at the scene.

There is a heavy police presence in the area following an “incident”.

West Midlands Police have not yet shared the nature of the incident which closed the road. However, they advised motorists to “avoid the area”.

Our reporter is on his way to the scene. We will bring you the latest updates as soon as we get them.

Traffic monitoring website Inrix said: “Walker Road in both directions has been partially blocked due to the police incident from Chaucer Road to Well Lane. Traffic is doing well. Detour – bus service 29″.

Welcome to our live blog of this incident. We will bring you the latest updates as soon as we get them.