Murder arrests after Blackburn man hit by car in bar argument on Christmas Day

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of a man who was hit by a car after an argument in a bar on Christmas Day.

Police were called to reports of a disturbance outside The Gate Street Bar and Grill in Blackburn, Lancashire, shortly before 4.50pm.

Kirk Marsden suffered multiple serious injuries after being hit by a Toyota Land Cruiser, police said.

The 37-year-old, from Blackburn, was taken to Royal Preston Hospital but died in the early hours of Boxing Day.

Mr Marsden’s family has shared a tribute, which reads: “To our hero, spread your wings far and wide. Your partner Leanne and your babies love you millions. You really were like no other, goodnight x.

“Kirk you were a well-loved son, brother and uncle who will be sorely missed. Rest with your dad now in heaven x.”

A 58-year-old man of no fixed address and a 31-year-old man, from Blackburn, have been arrested and remain in custody.

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A Toyota Land Cruiser has been recovered from a car park less than half a mile away from the bar officers were called to.

Anyone with CCTV, a dashcam or doorbell cam which covers the area between Livesey Branch Road and Brindle Street is being asked to check if they filmed the car between 4.48pm and 5pm on Christmas Day.

Detective Chief Inspector Bryony Midgley, from Lancashire Police’s major investigation team, said: “This incident has led to a man losing his life and first and foremost our thoughts remain with Kirk’s loved ones.”

Mr Marsden’s death is being treated as an isolated incident, he added.