Police have launched a murder investigation after a man was fatally struck by a car in Accrington.
They were called by the ambulance service shortly after 10pm yesterday (Wednesday, April 22nd) after the victim was hit by a VW Passat car at the junction of Blackburn Road and Birch Street in the town centre.
The victim, a local man in his 40s, suffered serious injuries and despite the best efforts of medical staff later died in hospital.
The car failed to stop at the scene and was later found abandoned on Barden Road. It has been recovered for examination.
An investigation is underway.
Det Supt Mark Dickinson, from the Force Major Investigation Team, said: “This incident has led to a man losing his life and first and foremost our thoughts remain with his loved ones.
“We have a dedicated team of officers assigned to this case who have been carrying out enquiries in the local area since last night and who are continuing to do so today. Please approach them if you have any information or concerns.
“We know there was some interaction between the victim and the people in the car prior to the fatal incident. I would ask any witnesses we haven’t already spoken to or anybody with mobile phone footage, CCTV or dashcam from the area around Birch Street to make contact with my team.
“I am also keen to hear from anyone who saw the VW Passat following the incident or who may have any CCTV or Ring doorbell footage from the area around Barden Road and Lynton Road where it was found abandoned.
“I am aware that what happened last night will cause some concern in the community. I’d like to reassure everyone that we have increased reassurance patrols in the area, and we are doing all we can to piece together exactly what happened.”
“Most importantly, I know that some people local to the area will know who is responsible. People can be reluctant to contact the police for many reasons. I am appealing directly to anyone with such knowledge to do the right thing and contact 101 quoting log 1508 of Wednesday, April 22nd."
You can also contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers.org.
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