A BUSY Hampshire road was closed for around seven hours after a pedestrian died in a crash in the early hours of Friday morning.

Police and ambulance crews rushed to the scene in Highlands Road, Fareham, shortly after midnight following reports a pedestrian had been hit by a car.

South Central Ambulance Service confirmed they treated a 23-year-old Fareham man, but he was later pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Now officers have launched an appeal for information after a 23-year-old man from Fareham was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

A spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said: “Officers were called shortly after midnight to reports of a collision involving a Peugeot 206 and a pedestrian on Highlands Road.

“Investigations into the exact circumstances of the collision are ongoing and we would like to hear from anyone who saw what happened.”

A number of people have taken to social media to pay their respects to the man who died. One person wrote: “Such a waste of a young life,” while another person said: “Very sad. Such a young guy with his whole life ahead of him. Thoughts go out to the family.”

Police had closed the road between Stow Crescent and Gudge Heath Lane while they carried out an investigation into the exact circumstances of the crash. Drivers were warned to avoid the area as it was expected to be closed during the morning rush hour, but officers reopened the road shortly after 7am.

Before reopening the road, a spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

Anyone with information about the crash is urged to call police on 101, quoting reference ‘44170309132’, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.