Suspect Arrested in Theft of Flowers From Ozzy Osbourne Memorial

A man has been arrested and charged in connection with the theft of flowers and gifts placed by fans at a public tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne, according to a report by the BBC.

West Midlands Police confirmed that 45-year-old Parviz Jafari has been charged with theft following an incident at the Black Sabbath Bridge in Birmingham. He was taken into custody on August 2, after authorities were alerted to a theft at the site. Jafari is scheduled to appear before magistrates on September 3.

A City in Mourning

The stolen items were part of a growing tribute collection left by fans mourning the passing of the legendary Black Sabbath frontman, who died on July 22, 2025. The Black Sabbath Bridge, located in Birmingham’s Broad Street area, has become a major gathering point for grieving fans around the world.

Despite the theft, tributes continue to pour in. The Black Sabbath Bench, located nearby, along with a live-streamed camera feed, has enabled fans from across the globe to participate in the memorial remotely.

Tribute Extends Beyond the Streets

In addition to the public tributes, the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is hosting a free exhibition titled “Ozzy Osbourne (1948–2025): Working Class Hero.” The exhibition showcases a collection of Osbourne’s accolades, including Grammy Awards, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honors, and platinum and gold records that highlight his rise from Birmingham’s working-class roots to global rock stardom.

Due to strong public interest, the exhibit has been extended through January 18, 2026, giving more fans the chance to celebrate Osbourne’s enduring legacy. Music publication Vinyl Me Please noted that the exhibition’s extension reflects the immense impact Osbourne had on music and culture.

Legacy Lives On

The recent theft has underlined the deep emotional bond fans feel toward Osbourne and the spaces dedicated to honoring him. While the incident was upsetting, the city’s response—through both community tributes and formal exhibitions—shows a unified effort to remember and celebrate Birmingham’s most iconic musical figure in a variety of meaningful ways.