A HIGH-SPEED hit-and-run driver left a 39-year-old man dying in the road before abandoning his car nearby..

Police are appealing for witnesses to the accident, which occurred on Leeds Road, Nelson, near to the junction of Wickliffe Street, at 10.20pm yesterday.

They are also trying to trace the owner of the black Vauxhall Astra car they believe was involved in the accident.

The dead man has not been named by police because relatives have still to be informed.

Police have said he was crossing the street when witnesses saw a black Vauxhall Astra driven "at excessive speed" hit him, leaving him with multiple injuries. He was pronounced dead at Burnley General Hospital.

The car, registration number UPB 982X, was abandoned in Bradley Hall Road and witnesses reported seeing a man running away from the vehicle.

Inspector John Grice said: "This is a very tragic accident in criminal circumstances. We are issuing a very important appeal for witnesses.

"There were a number of people in the area at the time and we are waiting to interview them today.

"We have a man who appears to be responsible for a criminal offence and I would appeal for any witnesses to help us."

The dead man is understood to have a large family in the area and police were hoping to be able to release his name later today or early tomorrow.

Anyone who saw the incident or can help is asked contact police on 01282 863161. TRAGEDY SCENE: Police are appealing for witnesses Hit and run

horror BPR

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