Lidl store to reopen after fatal car crash through entrance

A Lidl supermarket in Wolverhampton is set to reopen almost two weeks after a car crashed through the entrance, killing a father-of-two and injuring several others.

The Finchfield Hill store has remained closed since the incident on 23 October, when James Singh Jagpal, 39, died when a Renault Zoe crashed into the supermarket shortly before 18:00 GMT.

A spokesman said the store was set to reopen on Saturday after essential repairs and safety checks. The announcement comes as thousands of pounds have been raised to support Jagpal's family with funeral costs.

The driver, a woman in her 70s, was also hurt and has since been released from hospital. Police said she would be spoken to in due course.

Floral tributes were left outside the store in the days following the crash as members of the community paid their respects.

An online fundraiser set up to help the family collected more than £8,100 within two days of being set up.

In a tribute released through West Midlands Police, Jagpal's family described him as a "much-loved son and brother, devoted partner of over 20 years and loving father to two wonderful daughters".

They praised his kindness, generosity and sense of humour, while family member Sophie Jagpal said the loss had left their world "turned upside down".

Two people who suffered serious injuries in the crash have since been sent home from hospital, while four others were treated at the scene.

Confirming the store's reopening, a Lidl GB spokesperson said: "Our deepest thoughts and sympathies remain with the family and loved ones of James Singh Jagpal following their devastating loss.

"We continue to do everything possible to support our colleagues during this difficult time, and we sincerely thank the local community for their patience and understanding."

West Midlands Police continue to appeal for information from anyone who was in the Finchfield Hill area on the evening of the crash and saw the blue Renault Zoe.

The death is not being treated as suspicious.

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