A man in his 50s was hospitalised in critical condition after a shocking rush hour assault on Springfield Road

An ordinary Monday evening spiralled into chaos in Kings Heath as a man in his 50s was left fighting for his life after a horrifying street attack during peak rush hour. Springfield Road, a usually vibrant stretch filled with commuters, shoppers, and school children, became the scene of an emergency lockdown after the brutal incident at around 5 pm on July 7.

Emergency services rushed to the scene as word of the assault spread quickly among startled locals. Police cordoned off the area, and stunned residents watched as detectives and forensics teams took over the street, turning the suburban road into a major crime scene.

The victim, whose identity has not been released, suffered life-threatening injuries and was rushed to the hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Authorities have described the assault as “appalling,” with Detective Sergeant Shereen Ballentine warning of the brazen nature of the violence, especially given the time and place.

“This was an appalling assault at what was a very busy time,” said DS Ballentine. “I’d appeal for anyone with CCTV, dashcam or mobile footage to get in touch with us as soon as possible.”

Detectives are reviewing hours of CCTV footage and have begun door-to-door inquiries in the surrounding area. Residents are being urged to check any security footage they may have from that evening and to report anything unusual, even if it seems minor.

For the Kings Heath community, the randomness and brutality of the attack have stoked serious fears.

“I’ve lived here for 20 years and I’ve never seen anything like this,” said one local mother who walked past the scene minutes after the assault. “It could have been anyone. That’s the scariest part.”

The area, known for its independent shops, cafes, and family-friendly atmosphere, has been rattled by the violence. Parents collecting children from nearby schools and office workers walking home were caught in the aftermath, many expressing concern that crime appears to be edging ever closer to their doorsteps.

Police have stepped up patrols around Kings Heath in response, hoping to reassure a shaken community. But the suspect remains at large, and with few public details on the attacker, anxiety continues to ripple through the area.

Several residents told reporters they now feel unsafe walking alone at night and are reconsidering evening routines. Some have even begun organising neighbourhood watch groups and increased surveillance around their homes.

“We need answers and fast,” said a local business owner. “The fact that someone can be nearly killed in broad daylight and the attacker just disappears—it’s terrifying.”

As Birmingham continues to confront a rise in street crime, the Springfield Road attack has reignited debates around urban safety, policing resources, and how to better protect vulnerable individuals in public spaces.

Detectives remain determined to bring the perpetrator to justice, but say community cooperation is essential.

“If you were in the area, saw something suspicious, or have footage of any kind, please speak to us,” DS Ballentine reiterated.

With the victim still in critical condition and no arrests announced, the streets of Kings Heath remain gripped by fear, and one urgent question: Who is responsible for this appalling act?