Murdered Birmingham Couple's Family Plead for Justice

The family of a Birmingham couple found murdered in their home have made a plea for information in an emotional press conference.

Avtar Kolar, 62, and his wife Carole, 58, were found dead after a vicious attack at their home in Friary Road, Handsworth Wood, Birmingham.

They were discovered by their son, a West Midlands police officer, and leave behind four children and eight grandchildren.

The couple's son Avtar, 32, and daughter Michelle, 39, described their parents as "the sweetest and kindest people" who "wouldn't hurt a fly".

The siblings broke down while reading statements calling for help to catch the killers, who struck between Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Whoever has done this has not just taken their lives, but our hearts are broken forever and our family will never be the same again," Avtar said.

"They have taken away our mum, dad, grandmother, brother and sister and auntie and uncle.

"My brother did find them. He is a policeman and I think we are all aware he is a human being as well.

"The hardest thing anyone can do is tell the children that they will never see their nan and grandad again."

He pleaded for anyone who might have information that could help the police to come forward.

"Somebody out there knows who did this, so please, I beg of you, help us catch this person who has taken these two most special people away from us."

Michelle read messages of support received by the family, such as: "Your mum was one in a million."

Det Supt Richard Baker, who is leading the inquiry, repeated his pledge that the killers would be brought to justice. Forensic examinations are ongoing at the couple's home, while post-mortem examinations have yet to be carried out.

He said that members of the public had already come forward with "significant lines of inquiry".

"I am confident that we will catch the people responsible. This has devastated not only a family, but also a local community," he said.