Solihull: Mormon bishop in coma after he was dragged along road by thief who stole his Mazda CX5

West Midlands Police have launched a manhunt after a Mormon bishop was left fighting for his life in a coma after he was dragged along a road by robbers who stole his Mazda CX5 as he opened the Church of Latter Day Saints in Solihull.

The 45-year-old clergyman from Castle Bromwich was found by a passer-by lying in the road near the church in Clopton Crescent in Chelmsley Wood at about 9am on 16 August. They reported hearing a "loud bang" and police have said he sustained a serious head injury. It is believed the man had been dragged down the street as he clung on to the car.

The car was recovered a short time later in nearby Starling Grove and was taken to a secure location for a detailed forensic examination.It is not known how many people were involved or whether this was a targeted attack or an opportunistic thief cashing-in on a running car left with the keys in the ignition.

Detective Sergeant Sam Price, from Chelmsley Wood police station, said: "We're working hard to understand what has happened but initial inquiries suggest that the 45-year-old, from Castle Bromwich, had been opening up the Church of Latter Day Saints on Clopton Crescent at around 9am on Sunday when his silver Mazda CX5 Sport was stolen. "We've conducted house-to-house and identified CCTV cameras in the area which may have captured the robbery."

Anyone with information which may aid Det Sgt Price's investigation should call her on 101. Information can also be passed on anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.