Three killed in Birmingham 'trying to protect businesses'

A murder inquiry is underway after three men where killed after being hit by a car in Birmingham in England last night.

There are reports they may have been trying to protect businesses from looters when it happened.

West Midlands Police launched a murder inquiry after the trio were struck by the vehicle in Dudley Road, Winson Green, shortly after 1am.

Two men were pronounced dead at the scene of the incident, which may be linked to the looting which has stunned the city as up to 80 bystanders were present.

This morning, West Midlands Ambulance Service said the third man died from his injuries at City Hospital.

It is not known if detectives will connect the deaths to the riots but a man has been arrested and a car recovered.

A police spokesman said forensics experts will examine the vehicle and appealed for witnesses to come forward.

The ambulance service confirmed that all three men were in collision with a car and that paramedics found scores of people at the scene of the incident when they arrived.

“The incident took place close to the Jet filling station on Dudley Road in Winson Green at approximately 1.15am,” the spokesman said.

“Three ambulances, two rapid response vehicles and an incident support officer was sent to the scene.

“When crews arrived, they found around 80 people at the scene with resuscitation ongoing on three men.

“Crews used their advanced life support skills while police officers provided support.”

Two of the men were pronounced dead and the third taken to hospital, where he later died.