Kirk Marsden murder suspects named after dad, 37, fatally hit by car outside pub on Christmas Day

Detectives have charged three men with murder after a much-loved dad was knocked down and killed outside a pub on Christmas Day.

Kirk Marsden, 37, suffered serious injuries after being fatally struck by a Toyota Land Cruiser outside The Gate Street Bar and Grill in Blackburn. He was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital where very sadly he died on Boxing Day.

In an update issued this morning (December 30), Lancashire Constabulary said they have now charged three men with Kirk’s murder. James Ward, 26, of no fixed address, Thomas Ward, 58, of no fixed address, and Michael O’Neill, 35, of New Welling Street, Blackburn, have been remanded in custody to appear at Preston Magistrates Court today.

DCI Bryony Midgley, of our Force Major Investigation Team, said: “Our thoughts remain with Kirk’s family and loved ones at this difficult time, and they will continue to be supported by specially trained officers. While three men have been charged with murder, the investigation continues, and we are still appealing for witnesses to come forward.

“This incident started with an altercation in The Gate. We can see from the CCTV that there are a number of witnesses who we have not yet spoken to. If this is you, I ask that you please make contact with my team.

“We have recovered a Toyota Land Cruiser that was involved in the incident from a carpark on Brindle Street. It had travelled from Moorgate St and down Livesey Branch Road following the fatal collision.

“I am continuing to ask for anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam which covers these areas between 4.30pm and 5pm on Christmas Day to check their footage. If you have captured a Toyota Land Cruiser, please contact us.”

Any witnesses, or anyone with information, is asked to contact 101, quoting log 0747 of December 27, or upload it directly to the Major Incident Portal here.

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