Police launch investigation after graphic footage circulates showing violent assault near Centenary Square

 Shocking footage of a brutal assault in Birmingham city centre has gone viral, showing a man being glassed and a woman punched to the ground during a violent altercation near Centenary Square.

The incident, which unfolded shortly before 8pm on Saturday, March 29, sparked widespread condemnation after the video was widely shared on social media. In the footage, a man in his twenties can be seen struck in the head with a glass bottle while bystanders scream in horror. Moments later, a woman appears to intervene and is punched in the face with such force that she falls heavily to the pavement.

West Midlands Police confirmed they are investigating the attack and are aware of the video circulating online. The force has urged witnesses or anyone with information to come forward immediately.

A police spokesperson said: “We’re aware of a video circulating online after a man was hit with a bottle in Birmingham city centre. A man in his 20s sustained cuts to his head near Centenary Square at just before 8pm on 29 March. A woman was also punched to the ground during the incident.”

The man was treated at hospital for head injuries, while details of the woman’s condition have not yet been confirmed. Officers have not announced any arrests at this stage.

The video, less than a minute long, shows chaotic scenes as tensions escalate between two groups. At least one man can be heard yelling moments before the bottle is swung. After the woman is struck, gasps erupt from the crowd. A few people rush in, but most remain frozen, visibly shocked.

One witness who saw the attack unfold told BirminghamLive: “It was horrible – one minute people were arguing, then someone grabbed a bottle and smashed it over the guy’s head. Then the woman tried to step in and just got floored. People were shouting, but nobody knew what to do. It was chaos.”

The footage has prompted hundreds of social media users to call for swift justice. “This is disgusting. That woman was just trying to help,” wrote one viewer. Another added: “No one should feel unsafe walking through the city. It’s a disgrace.”

Concerns over rising violence in the area have intensified recently, with several incidents reported in and around the city centre. In response, West Midlands Police have said they are stepping up patrols and reviewing CCTV to identify those involved.

Local councillor Imran Khan condemned the attack, saying: “This kind of violence is unacceptable and has no place in our city. I urge anyone who recognises those involved to speak to police.”

Centenary Square, a popular spot near the Birmingham Library and ICC, often draws crowds in the evening, especially at weekends. Following the incident, extra police presence was seen in the area on Sunday night.

West Midlands Police are appealing for any witnesses, mobile phone footage, or further information that could aid the investigation.