Attempted murder probe launched as man remains in serious condition after being hit by car in 'large disturbance' in Sunderland

A 31-year-old man remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition after suffering multiple injuries during the incident in Crieff Square, Hylton Castle, shortly after 12.30am on Tuesday.

The black 2003 BMW X5, which is believed to have been used in the incident, was later found burnt out in the Wendover Way area of Witherwack.

Northumbria Police has now launched an attempted murder investigation.

Three men and a woman were arrested on suspicion of affray on Tuesday. They have since been released under investigation.

Detective Inspector Sean Mcguigan, of Northumbria Police’s Southern CID, is appealing for anyone who has seen the BMW driving in the Sunderland area in recent weeks to come forward.

The vehicle is thought to have used two different registration plates over the last fortnight – C16 VEB and WM53 OZD.

“This BMW is a focal part of the investigation which we are now treating as attempted murder,” Det Insp Mcguigan said.

“The victim was left with serious injuries as a result of being hit by a car in the Crieff Square area following a disturbance involving a large group of individuals in the street.

“A team of detectives are carrying out inquiries, but we are now appealing to the public for information on this particular vehicle.

“We are treating this incident incredibly seriously and we will take swift and robust action against anybody found to have been involved.

“I would like to thank members of the community who have already come forward with information, and would ask anybody yet to do so to get in touch.”

Anyone with information regarding the incident, or who believes they have seen the vehicle in question over the last fortnight, is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 37 180619 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively you can pass on information by emailing [email protected].