FLORAL tributes have been left in memory of a ‘caring and loving’ man who was found murdered in Shard End.
Darren Smith was found with serious head injuries outside shops in Heath Way just after 2.50pm on Wednesday March 15.
The 50-year-old was confirmed dead shortly afterwards.
In a tribute his family said: “We as a family are devastated at the loss of our son Darren.
“He was a caring man and was loved by all who knew him. He was tragically taken from us and this has left a huge void in our lives.
“We would ask anyone who knows or saw anything please come forward and contact the police.
“We would now wish to be left alone so we can deal with our loss and grieve in private.”
Flowers and messages have been left outside the shops in memory of Darren.
A tribute left from his son Luke said: “Dad they took you away but they couldn’t take you from my heart.
“See you on the other side dad, Love Luke RIP.”
Another read: “Wiffa you will always be in my thoughts, Johnny.”
A cordon was put in place while police carried out enquiries to establish who was responsible.
West Midlands Police said it had an increased policing presence in the area as officers reviewed all available CCTV and spoke to as many people as possible.
Lee O’Brien, 53, Luke O’Brien, 35, and Lewis O’Brien, 31, all from Birmingham, were arrested in Devon and charged with murder.
The trio will appear in Birmingham Crown Court for trial on September 11.
Anyone with information should contact police via live chat on the police website or by calling 101 and quote log 2653 of March 15.
