Police believe man found on Sunderland road was assaulted rather than hit by car

Officers are investigating how the 29-year-old male victim came to be found in Bramwell Road, Hendon, at about 1.05pm on Saturday.

It had been unclear whether he had been struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run incident, or if he had been assaulted.

Emergency services, including eight police cars, the force helicopter and paramedics rushed to the scene, and the victim was taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital with head injuries, described as non-life threatening.

Officers arrested a 24-year-old woman in connection with the incident, however, she has now been released without charge.

A spokeswoman for Northumbria Police said: "We believe the man was assaulted and enquiries are ongoing."

Police previously appealed for information about a silver-coloured Citroen and its occupants, thought to have been seen in the area at the time the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log number 551 of 04/03/17 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.