A pregnant woman sought refuge at Al-Qamar restaurant in Birmingham after being injured by an assailant who wielded a baseball bat and later brandished a knife. The incident unfolded when the woman rushed into the eatery for safety, startling diners like Akilah Bennett and her family who were preparing to leave. Witnessing the chaotic scene, Bennett recounted how a man arrived outside with a bat, initially appearing to target the woman, but it became evident they were not acquainted.
Describing the tense encounter, Bennett shared that her uncle courageously shielded the woman from the attacker’s blows, while the restaurant owner recognized the assailant as a local resident. The pregnant woman recounted being struck on her elbow by the bat while walking home, amidst the confusion of the attacker’s motives.
As the situation escalated, the assailant was driven off by Bennett’s uncle, the restaurant owner, and others, only to return wielding a knife. Bennett and her cousin swiftly secured the restaurant, protecting patrons from potential harm. Although the assailant eventually departed amid public confrontation, the police and ambulance responded promptly to the scene, offering assistance.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Bennett expressed disappointment that their pleasant dining experience was marred by the incident, praising the restaurant staff for their handling of the situation. Authorities from West Midlands Police confirmed the altercation occurred near 10 pm on July 14 on Vincent Street, involving the assault of a woman leading to a severe arm injury. They urged witnesses with information or footage to come forward by referencing log 6300 of July 14.