Mentoring and police work accompany West Midlands fall in shootings
Communities across the West Midlands are experiencing fewer shootings, as specialist investigators and people with experience of gang life work to prevent violence.
New BBC reporting describes how former gang member Simeon Moore, known as Zimbo, now mentors young musicians through Revere Records. He says credible voices are encouraging young people to turn away from gang life.
Police figures put firearms discharges at 38 in the first eight months of 2026, compared with 63 over the same period in 2025. The force’s Major Crime Unit combines teams investigating shootings with officers pursuing organised criminals.
Investigators use CCTV, forensic evidence and mobile-phone analysis to identify suspects. These figures do not establish how much of the reduction comes from policing, mentoring or other changes, and shootings still cause lasting fear.
The approaches offer practical ways to reduce harm: investigate serious violence thoroughly while helping young people imagine a future beyond it. As Moore puts it: “The village is starting to work together.”
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