Man fighting for his life after violence erupts in Wakefield

Detectives say the incident in Westgate in the early hours of this morning appears to have started after a disagreement in a nearby takeaway and then spilled out onto the street.

The victim, a man, aged 38, from Bradford, suffered a life threatening head injury.

Det Supt Nick Wallen, from West Yorkshire Police said: “Officers were called to the scene, which was near to the Bing Bada Boom venue on Westgate, shortly before 5am this morning following reports that up to 10 people were fighting.

“While the investigation is at an early stage we have made four arrests in connection with this incident and I am keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the disturbance and has not already spoken to police.

“We believe the incident started following a disagreement in a nearby takeaway which has then spilled out onto the street. At the time this took place there will have been a number of people in the local area getting a taxi home or having something to eat and I would like to hear from those potential witnesses.’’

“A 38-year-old man from Bradford has been admitted to Leeds General Infirmary with a life threatening head injury, so it’s vital that we establish what took place here as soon as possible.

“At the present time a scene remains in place on Westgate while forensic officers examine the area for evidence. CCTV from surrounding premises is also being examined.

“Incidents like this will not be tolerated and for someone to suffer life threatening injuries under these circumstances and in the run-up to Christmas is disturbing and is something we are not used to seeing in Wakefield.”

He said additional patrols will take place in central Wakefield tonight and he urged anyone with any information that could assist officers to come forward.

Four men were in custody this morning in connection with the incident. They are a 20-year-old man from Liversedge, a 20-year-old man from Batley, a 21-year-old man from Mirfield and 22-year-old from Leeds. All four men are being held on suspicion of assault.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wakefield CID on 101 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.