A YOUNG man has died after an incident on Haxby Road in the early hours of this morning.

Police say they believe the 21-year-old man was involved in a violent incident before he was knocked down by a passing taxi, and they are appealing for a key witness to come forward.

The road was closed for almost 12 hours, but has now reopened after police investigations on the scene.

Police said the initial report came in to their control room at about 1.48am, saying there was violent disorder among a group of men near the Nuffield Hospital.

A few minutes later, while officers were on their way, a taxi driver called the emergency services to say his car had been in a collision with a pedestrian nearby on Haxby Road.

Paramedics, firefighters and police officers were all called and did everything they could to save the seriously injured man, but he sadly died at the scene.

His next of kin have been informed, but police say they are not yet in a position to name him.

Detective Inspector Andrea Kell, of York CID, said: “This is clearly a very tragic incident and we are supporting the young man’s family while the police investigation continues.

“I urge anyone with information that could assist our enquiries to get in touch without delay.”

Police particlarly want to speak to a man who they believe saw the violence and the collision, after he was dropped off by at taxi nearby at about 1.45am.

It is understood the man, who spoke with an Irish accent, got a taxi from Duncombe Place at about 1.30am. Police think he could have important information to help their investigation and they are urging him to come forward.

Four local men, aged 22, 20, 18 and 18, have been arrested in connection with the violent disorder. Two women, aged 20 and 16, were also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender..

The taxi driver, a 58-year-old man from York, is assisting police with enquiries in relation to the collision.

A 20-year-old man, who is believed to have been involved in the violent disorder, was taken to York District Hospital for treatment to a serious hand injury. He is assisting police with enquiries.

Witnesses to the violence are urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for York CID, or email YorkCID@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

Alternatively, they can call 101, option 1, and pass details to the Force Control Room quoting “Operation Hydrus”.

Anyone who witnessed the collision - which involved a silver Volvo S80 saloon - should call 101, select option 2, and ask for Peter Wood. Or email  Peter.Wood@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk

If you would prefer to remain anonymous, information can be passed to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 quoting reference number 12140175183.