Solihull man charged with murdering taxi driver

A man has been charged with murder after a taxi driver was fatally stabbed in Solihull.

Mohammed Istakhar, 44, was found seriously injured at the junction of Braggs Farm Lane and Lady Lane around 06:45 GMT on Tuesday.

Luca De-Fazio, 18, from Solihull, was remanded in custody at a hearing at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Friday.

He is next due to appear at the city's crown court on 6 December.

In a statement, Mr Istakhar's family said he was loved and respected by the whole community.

West Midlands Police said its investigation was continuing and urged anyone with information to come forward.

The force has also appealed for help to find Oliver Pugh, whom officers would like to speak to in connection with the death.

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