A 39-YEAR-OLD man is critically ill in hospital after a street fracas.

Police were called to Victoria Road in Thornhill Lees, Dewsbury, at around 6.40pm on Sunday after several reports from the public.

It is believed a group of men were seen fighting but then fled, leaving the man seriously injured on the ground.

He was taken to hospital with head injuries where his condition late yesterday was described as critical.

A white forensic tent was set up outside a house near to the junction of Victoria Road and Douglas Avenue.

A police cordon was in place most of yesterday, and residents were asked to check in with police to gain access to and from their homes.

The attack happened near to a semi- detached house which was partially destroyed in a suspicious blaze June.

The incident has rocked the community.

Taxi driver Mohammad Nasim said: “I am really shocked. Everybody gets on really well round here. I have young children and they could have been playing in the street at that time.

“I won’t let them out now.”

Suleman Mulla, who was visiting his daughter on Slaithwaite Avenue, said: “She has lived her 15 years and never known anything like this.

“This place is getting worse day by day.”

One woman, who worked nearby but did not wish to be named, said: “I’m really shocked by what has happened. It is the kind of place where everyone knows everyone.”

Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Any witnesses to the incident are asked to contact Dewsbury CID on 01924 431095 or the independent crime fighting charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Four men have now been arrested in connection with the attack on suspicion of GBH with intent.