Man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after six people hit by car in Cleckheaton

A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a group of pedestrians were knocked down in Cleckheaton in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Officers were called to the scene at around 12.37am following reports six people had been injured after being hit by a red Audi on Bradford Road, with the junction with Balme Road.

A man in his 40s suffered life threatening injuries.

Five other men received medical treatment. Two sustained serious injuries and remain in hospital. Three others sustained minor injuries and have since been discharged.

A 49-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody.

• REACTION: Locals speak out after car ploughs into six people

Earlier in the evening, there is believed to have been an altercation between the driver of the vehicle and some of the people injured.

Officers are appealing for anyone who has any information or anyone who has dashcam footage of the incident or of the vehicle driving in the area prior to the incident.

Kirklees Council said the road was closed between Chain Bar and St Peg Lane. There was a diversion through Birkenshaw and the road was expected to be closed until at least lunchtime.

Detective Chief Superintendent Pat Twiggs, of Protective Services Crime, said: “This is clearly a very serious incident and one which has caused understandable concern in the community.

“We have been conducting enquiries throughout the night and have spoken to a number of witnesses. I would appeal for anyone who has information and has yet to speak to officers to please get in touch. I would also appeal for anyone who has any dashcam footage of the incident to contact our officers.

“I would also ask for anyone who has CCTV in the local area which may have captured the incident or the red Audi driving in the area to contact officers as soon as possible.  

“A scene remains in place while our enquiries continue.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting crime reference 13190652982. Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 111 555.