A MAN has died in a “serious incident” after police responded to reports of a stabbing.

Police were called to Whitehawk Road in Brighton at 2.30pm yesterday to deal with the incident.

Several marked and unmarked police cars quickly filled the street and the area was cordoned off with police tape as detectives set to work investigating the “serious incident”.

One passerby said they had seen a man come out of a house and “it looked like he got whacked over the head”.

Police and ambulance crews attended the scene and a man, believed to be in his 20s, was taken to hospital with “serious injuries” and later died from his wounds.

Four men were subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder. All four suspects remain in police custody at this stage.

In the aftermath of the incident, forensics teams could be seen laying markers on the ground within the cordoned off area, while a large number of officers remained stationed at the perimeters of the scene.

The road was shut for several hours after the man was injured, and Sussex Police have warned that there will be a continued police presence in the area as enquiries continue.

A force spokesman said: “Detectives are investigating a serious incident in a street in Whitehawk.

“Police were called to attend an incident in Whitehawk Road, just south of the junction with Findon Road, at about 2.30pm yesterday.”

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Geldart, of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, said: “Our thoughts are with the victim and his family at this very difficult time.

“This is believed to be an isolated incident and we have four suspects in custody; we are not seeking anyone else.

“This is a fast-moving investigation and I’d like to urge people to refrain from speculating on social media.

“If you saw what happened, or if have any information which you think could assist in our investigation, please contact us.

“Local residents can expect to see a significant police presence in the area as our enquiries continue, and I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding.”

Anyone with any information about the incident is urged to report it online or call 101, quoting operation Heathland.

You can also report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.

The investigation comes amid a UK lockdown in which Britons have been urged to stay inside to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Brighton and Hove Police posted an update on social media, providing advice to residents in the area.

The force said “the matter is under control” and urged people in the area to “please observe government guidelines and stay away from the area”.