The festive season was marred by tragedy in Blackburn, Lancashire, as a 37-year-old father, Kirk Marsden, lost his life following a hit-and-run incident on Christmas Day. The incident unfolded outside the Gate bar on Moorgate Street, where Marsden was struck by a Toyota Land Cruiser, sustaining severe injuries. He succumbed to these injuries the following morning at Royal Preston Hospital, leaving his family and community devastated.

Lancashire Police have launched a thorough investigation into the incident, treating it as a suspected murder. Three individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. Initially, a 58-year-old man of no fixed address and a 31-year-old man from Blackburn were taken into custody on suspicion of murder. Subsequently, a third arrest was made on Saturday evening, with a 26-year-old man also detained on suspicion of murder. The 31-year-old and 26-year-old suspects remain in custody, while the 58-year-old has been released on conditional bail pending further inquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Bryony Midgley, leading the investigation, expressed her deepest condolences to Marsden’s grieving family, assuring them that they are at the forefront of the investigation. Recognizing the profound impact of this tragedy, particularly during the holiday season, she emphasized the dedication of the investigative team to bring those responsible to justice. DCI Midgley appealed to the public for assistance in piecing together the events leading up to the fatal collision.

The police have recovered the Toyota Land Cruiser involved in the incident from a car park on Brindle Street. It is believed the vehicle traveled down Livesey Branch Road immediately after the collision. Investigators are seeking any CCTV, doorbell camera, or dashcam footage that may have captured the Land Cruiser in the vicinity of Livesey Branch Road and Brindle Street between 4:30 pm and 5:00 pm on Christmas Day. This timeframe is crucial for establishing the vehicle’s movements and potentially identifying other individuals involved.

Prior to the incident outside the Gate bar, an altercation reportedly occurred within the premises. Investigators believe this altercation is connected to the subsequent hit-and-run. DCI Midgley urged anyone who witnessed the altercation or possesses mobile phone footage of the incident to come forward and share their information with the investigation team. This information, however small it may seem, could be instrumental in understanding the circumstances that led to Marsden’s death.

While acknowledging the community’s concern over this tragic incident, police have assured residents that it is being treated as an isolated event. Reassurance patrols have been increased in the area to provide a sense of security and address any anxieties arising from the incident. Marsden’s family, grappling with the sudden and heartbreaking loss, described him as a cherished son, brother, and uncle who will be deeply missed. They paid tribute to their “hero,” expressing their profound love and grief.

The investigation remains ongoing, with detectives meticulously gathering evidence and pursuing leads. The police are appealing for anyone with information, regardless of how insignificant they may perceive it to be, to come forward. Any piece of information, be it witness accounts, video footage, or even overheard conversations, could prove vital in building a comprehensive understanding of the events that culminated in this devastating loss. The family’s plea for justice underscores the urgency of the ongoing investigation and the collective effort to bring closure to this tragic chapter.

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