Police have launched an investigation after the body of a man was discovered on the grounds of a secondary school in Wolverhampton.
Pupils make grim discovery before PE lesson
The incident occurred at Smestow Academy on the morning of Monday, 19 January 2026. According to a local resident, students came across the remains while they were getting ready for a physical education lesson.
The discovery was made at approximately 10.40am in a field on Windmill Crescent in the Castlecroft area. The West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed they were called to a medical emergency at 10.41am.
School closed and investigation launched
Following the discovery, the school took immediate action. All pupils were sent home and the academy announced an early closure. A notice posted on the school's website stated it was 'closing due to an unconnected police incident from 1pm today.'
Emergency services, including two ambulances and a paramedic officer, attended the scene. A spokesperson for the ambulance service said: 'Sadly, one man was confirmed deceased.'
Police work to establish circumstances
West Midlands Police are now conducting enquiries to piece together the events leading to the man's death. A force spokesperson confirmed officers are working to establish the man's identity and the circumstances surrounding his death.
The investigation is in its early stages, and police have not yet released further details about the man or how he came to be on the school premises.
The incident has caused significant disruption and distress within the school community. Parents and guardians were notified of the early closure, and support is being offered to students and staff affected by the traumatic discovery.
