Witnesses say a car was allegedly driven at a group of men who had been seen fighting in the street during a serious disturbance in Paignton, Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed
Four men were seen brawling in the street before a car was driven into them, according to reports. Police are probing the serious fracas in Torbay today.
Officers responded to the incident om Esplanade Road in Paignton at 8.15am following reports of a scrap involving at least four men. A vehicle has been impounded but the men have not yet been traced.
A bystander said that a group was seen scrapping and a car seemed to have been driven into them. Police, some reportedly armed, swarmed the area and were observed searching for a vehicle. The force confirmed a vehicle has since been seized.
The incident unfolded in the Kernou Road vicinity, just off the Esplanade, near the Hyde Dendy pub, although this was shut at the time and unrelated to the events, reports Devon Live.
Ian Pagel, proprietor of the nearby Sealawn Guest House, told DevonLive he saw what he described as a “fight involving a group of adults”.
He stated: “A car tried to drive into the crowd and run them over. Then the police were called. I peered out of the window and saw the police arrive. Police were inspecting all the cars parked around the area, checking the number plates.”
Another eyewitness told DevonLive she saw four men fighting and one then climbed into a car and drove at another man.
She recounted: “There was a group of men fighting, punching each other. One was in a car and got out and started fighting with the others.”
The woman said one man stripped off his shirt, revealing a massive cross tattooed across his entire back, and then squared up to the others.
He then climbed into a car and she said: “He sped off as if he was going to run over (a man), but the guy got out of the way.”
She said the men fled down an alley but the car drove towards the high street. Another witness reported spotting armed police and at least three police cars stationed in Esplanade Road.
Officers were later seen with a recovery vehicle near the Ibis Styles Hotel.
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said a car had been recovered as enquiries continued and witnesses should contact the force
The spokesperson said: “Police received reports of a disturbance involving a small group of unknown individuals.
“Inquiries are continuing, to identify those involved and ensure their welfare.
“We have recovered a car and are happy that it is the car involved. There are no arrests yet but we are confident.
“Any witnesses should get in touch.”