Riyan Ali died from his injuries after a shooting in Washwood Heath (Image: WMP)

Inquest reveals cause of death after 'inspirational' Handsworth student shot

by · Birmingham Live

An 'inspirational' Handsworth student died after being shot in the head, an inquest heard. Medics tried to save Riyan Ali at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where he died two days later.

The 19-year-old, who was born in Birmingham, was found with life-threatening injuries in Alderson Road, Washwood Heath after a shooting on Saturday, October 19. The mechanical engineering student was rushed to hospital with a gunshot wound and died on the Monday (Oct 21).

An inquest was opened into his 'violent, unnatural' death, at Birmingham Coroners Court today. Senior Coroner Louise Hunt offered her condolences as she recorded identification details and his official cause of death, as confirmed by a post-mortem examination.

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Mrs Hunt said: "In this case sadly the deceased did die a violent, unnatural death, therefore an inquest is required." Reading a statement from coroner's investigator Karen Jones from Oct 28, she added: "The identification details are as follows, his name is Ali Ahsan Riyan and he was born on January 27, 2005 in Birmingham.

"He was a 19-year-old man living in Handsworth. He was a mechanical engineering student and a single man. Very sadly he was admitted to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital having been found to have a gunshot wound to the head.

"Sadly despite efforts to try and help him, he passed away. An initial forensic post mortem examination has been undertaken by Dr Randall. This has confirmed that the cause of death should be recorded as gunshot wound to the head."

Why journalists cover inquests

Journalists are always allowed to go to inquests and are allowed to report anything which is said in court. Many journalists report inquests as part of the principle of ‘open justice’.

The purpose of open justice and reporting from inquests is to: make sure that the public understands the reasons why someone has died, make sure that deaths are not kept secret, draw attention to circumstances which may lead to more deaths or injuries and to prevent this from happening and clear up any rumours or suspicion about the death.

She continued: "I am aware that there is a full murder investigation ongoing by West Midlands Police." She adjourned the hearing to allow the police probe to be conducted, adding: "I would like to take this opportunity to offer my condolences to his family and friends." Riyan’s family previously paid an emotional tribute to their ‘inspirational’ teenager.

They said: “At just 19, he was a source of joy, laughter, and inspiration for his family and friends. His kindness, curiosity, and unwavering spirit touched hearts and created cherished memories that will forever resonate.

"He had a unique ability to uplift those around him, always ready with a smile or a listening ear. Whether pursuing his passions or sharing moments with loved ones, he embraced life with enthusiasm and grace.

"His dreams were as boundless as his potential and he approached each day with a sense of adventure."

Latest crime in Birmingham

In a latest police update, the force said Faieq Ghazanfar had been charged with conspiracy to possess a firearm with intent to endanger life. He was due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on October 25.

West Midlands Police had said: "We've charged a man as investigations into the murder of 19-year-old Riyan Ali in Washwood Heath on Saturday, October 19, continue.

"The man, also aged 19, was arrested on Monday, October 21, and has now been charged with conspiracy to possess a firearm with intent to endanger life. Faieq Ghazanfar is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court. Enquiries are on-going after shots were fired in Alderson Road, shortly before 10.30am last Saturday."

Detectives appealed for anyone with information, dashcam or doorbell footage, who is yet to speak to police, to come forward. If you can help, contact police via 101 or Live Chat quoting log 4859 of 19 October. Or if you want to remain anonymous speak to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.