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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Tal Fox

Kenichi Phillips: Birmingham teenager shot dead was expecting first child

A teenager shot dead in Birmingham was expecting his first child, his family has revealed.

Kenichi Philips was killed while he sat in a black Seat Leon in the city's Ladywood area on Thursday evening w.

The 18-year-old's father, who police said did not want to be named, said: “He was a great grandson, a grandson, a cousin, nephew, brother, son and friend who was loved and will not get the chance to see his son born.”

Comedian, Cee Stylee,  Mr Philips’ great uncle, posted a photo of him on Facebook.

 “Last night we lost my Great-Nephew to ‪#‎GunCrime‬ in Birmingham," he wrote.

"Still coming to terms that his Beautiful Smile will only be a memory (and a happy one) from this day forth, but tears keep falling.

"My Heart cries & bleeds for my Niece who has lost her Baby Boy, my Sister & the rest of our Family.”

On Friday police arrested a 22-year-old man but he has been released on bail while the police continue their investigation. 

Detective Superintendent Mark Payne said: “It's shocking, totally unacceptable. We need to get the person responsible, and the weapon used, off the streets as soon as possible.

“We understand several people may have been in the area at the time of the shooting or saw the immediate aftermath. They could have vital information so I would ask them to call us in confidence or they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Alternatively, anyone with information is asked to call the police non-emergency number, 101. 

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