A FOURTH person has been arrested in connection with a hit and run in Brighton which left a father fighting for his life.

Andy Payne, 53, was flung into the air by a Fiat 500 which smashed into him as he crossed the road.

Shocking footage of the hit-and-run in Montague Place in the Kemp Town area of Brighton was released by Sussex Police in a bid to find the driver of the vehicle after the incident in January.

The Fiat was being driven along Bristol Road before turning left into Montague Place where it crashed into Mr Payne.

It didn't stop at the scene and carried on along Montague Place and turned right into College Street.

The Fiat was found that night in Madehurst Close, half a mile away.

Mr Payne’s son Sam Payne shared dramatic film footage of the crash on Facebook in the hope that anyone who knew who was involved would come forward.

He said: “Can everyone please share this video so we can catch whoever has done this to our poor dad. I felt sick watching this. I’m so thankful we still have him with us.”

Police officers investigating the disturbing incident last week arrested a 28-year-old woman from Brighton on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, fraud by false representation, aid and abet the driving of vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

Officers previously arrested:

  • A 31-year-old man from Brighton arrested on suspicion of arson, perverting the course of justice and causing serious injury by dangerous driving;
  • A 32-year-old Brighton man on suspicion of dangerous driving causing serious injury, attempting to pervert the course of justice and aggravated vehicle taking;
  • A 57-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

All been bailed until October while investigations continue.

Crimestoppers have offered a £1,000 reward, through The Argus, for information leading to the successful conviction. 

A Crimestoppers spokesman said: “This video is obviously incredibly disturbing and the driver of the vehicle must be held accountable.

"If anyone has information on who is responsible, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Officers are appealing for witnesses, and anyone with information is asked to call Sussex Police on 101, quoting Operation Northdown.