Muhammad Hassam Ali died after being stabbed in the city centre (Picture: Alamy)

A teenage boy who was stabbed to death in Birmingham city centre appears to have been killed in a tragic case of mistaken identity.

Muhammad Hassam Ali was the victim of the horrific attack yesterday afternoon in Victoria Square.

Police were called to the busy scene, beside the Town Hall and close to Birmingham New Street train station, at 3.30pm.

The 17-year-old was rushed to hospital, but he later died. West Midlands Police confirmed a murder investigation was launched.

Muhammad’s family have now released a photo of him.

Officers said they are reviewing CCTV and carrying out further inquiries to establish who was responsible for the teenager’s death.

The death is not currently being treated as gang-related.

Detective Inspector Michelle Thurgood, from the police’s homicide team, said: ‘This is a tragic case of a young man being killed in what appears to be a case of mistaken identity.

‘We are still trying to establish the motive and are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area just before 3.30pm yesterday.

‘We are especially looking for any photos or video footage from the surrounding area which may help us identify those responsible.

‘If you were walking through the area at the time, or a visitor who may have been taking pictures by The River statue near the Council House, we would like to hear from you as you may have vital information or evidence.’