.svg)
Heartbreak doubles for grieving family as funeral follows anniversary of mother's death.
A profound silence has fallen over Oldbury Road today, Friday, February 27, 2026, as nearly thousands gather at Jamia Masjid Smethwick to bid a final farewell to 18-year-old Zeshan Afzal. Scheduled to commence within less than hours after Jummah prayers, this Janaza marks a heartbreaking chapter for a family already steeped in grief. Community sources have revealed a poignant layer to this tragedy: Zeshan’s mother passed away only last year, leaving his father, Muhammad Afzal, to navigate the loss of a son during the same holy month of Ramadan that the family spent mourning her. As the community stands in solidarity, the focus remains on the "kindness and laughter" Zeshan was known for, even as the legal machinery moves against his accused attacker.
Final Janaza Rites and Unprecedented Crowds
The funeral prayer is taking place this afternoon, with the congregation spilling out from the Masjid into the surrounding streets. Due to the high profile of the case and the deep local affection for Zeshan, emergency road closures are currently in effect between Spon Lane and St Paul's Road. Mosque trustees have worked in lockstep with West Midlands Police to manage the massive turnout, which includes youth groups and community leaders from across the Black Country. The burial will follow shortly at a local cemetery, where Zeshan will be laid to rest, a move made possible only after the coroner released his body following yesterday's significant legal breakthrough.
Read more: Smethwick Mourns as Zeshan Afzal Janaza Confirmed Following Murder Charge
Judicial Progress and the Search for Evidence
While the community prays, the judicial process has officially entered a new phase. Following the formal murder charge filed late yesterday, the 17-year-old suspect made his initial appearance at Wolverhampton Magistrates’ Court this morning. Due to his age, the defendant's identity remains protected by law, but he has been remanded into secure youth detention as the case is fast-tracked to the Crown Court. Detectives are now focusing on "digital footprint" evidence recovered from encrypted mobile devices, which they believe points to a pre-meditated encounter rather than a random act of violence.
Search Operations and a Growing Legacy
Despite the charging of a suspect, West Midlands Police search teams remain active. Specialized divers were spotted today scouring the canal network near Smethwick Galton Bridge, searching for the weapon used in the fatal attack. Meanwhile, the legacy fundraiser established in Zeshan’s name has officially crossed the £20,000 threshold. These funds are being directed toward a sustainable water project as Sadaqah Jariyah—a continuous charity that will now serve as a lasting tribute to both Zeshan and his late mother. As the suspect awaits his next court date, the people of Smethwick remain focused on a peaceful farewell and the pursuit of justice for the Afzal family.
