Chilling moment Birmingham killer attacks man with screwdriver in robbery which leads to his death - Birmingham Live

A tragic incident unfolded in a Birmingham car park on the afternoon of May 14, involving a violent robbery attempt that ultimately led to the death of an elderly man. Neil O’Donnell, 83, had just arrived at a rehabilitation centre off Cateswell Road in Hall Green, intending to visit his partner. It was around 2:30 pm when Tony Griffin, a 54-year-old career criminal armed with what was believed to be a screwdriver, suddenly approached Neil’s car and tried to snatch his wristwatch. Neil fought back and managed to fend Griffin off, but the attacker grappled with him, causing an injury to Neil’s arm. Staff at the centre intervened and chased Griffin away. Neil was taken to the hospital for treatment and was discharged after receiving care for his injury. However, within a week, his health took a drastic downturn due to complications from an infection caused by the wound, and he sadly passed away. West Midlands Police conducted a thorough investigation and uncovered that Griffin’s accomplice, Wesley McDonnell, 46, had been surveilling Neil earlier that day. CCTV footage showed McDonnell at a nearby Co-op store approximately 30 minutes before the attack, closely eyeing Neil’s watch. McDonnell was seen picking up Griffin, and the two men followed Neil’s car from the store to the rehabilitation centre where the assault occurred. Further CCTV evidence captured Griffin discarding his top and cap in a wheelie bin as he fled on foot after the failed robbery. The police identified both men through facial recognition technology and other inquiries. Both Griffin and McDonnell, who live in the Kingstanding area of Birmingham, were charged and later found guilty of manslaughter at Warwick Crown Court. Griffin had earlier pleaded guilty to attempted robbery, while McDonnell was convicted at trial for the same charge. The criminal records of both men are extensive. Griffin has 14 previous convictions covering 32 offences, including burglary, robbery, and kidnapping. McDonnell’s record is even more substantial, with 29 convictions for 85 offences, such as burglary, wounding with intent, and robbery. Their sentencing is scheduled for January. Detective Inspector Nigel Box from the West Midlands homicide team described the attack as a brutal act against an elderly man who was simply going about his daily business. He noted the prolonged struggle captured on CCTV and Griffin’s determination to steal the watch despite Neil’s resistance. The investigation confirmed that the injury directly contributed to Neil’s death. The police acknowledged the profound impact of Neil’s passing on his family, who have requested privacy during their grieving process. Support has been provided to them throughout the court proceedings, with the police expressing their condolences.