Man arrested after body found in Stafford on Christmas morning

The body of an elderly man was found in the road in the early hours of Christmas Day

A 22-year-old man has been arrested after the body of an elderly man was found in the road during the early hours of Christmas Day.

Staffordshire Police said the man's body was discovered at the junction of Shakespeare Road and Wordsworth Avenue on the Highfields estate in Stafford at around 12.50am this morning. 

Specially-trained police officers have spoken with the family of the victim, who has not been identified, a force spokesman said.

A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of being unfit to drive through either drink or drugs in connection with the incident.

The man has been detained in custody and will continue to be questioned by police.

Detectives are investigating the incident and specialist officers are undertaking detailed inquiries at the scene.

Anyone with information on the incident or who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area, or a white van, is asked to contact Staffordshire Police.

The force spokesman said: "Specially-trained police officers are with the family of the elderly local man who died as a result of this tragic incident. They are being supported and kept informed about the progress of the investigation.

"The 22-year-old man arrested in connection with this incident remains in police custody and will be questioned by officers as the investigation progresses.

"We would ask that no names of the man who died are posted on to social media until the formal identification has been released so that the family affected can ensure all relatives and loved ones are informed first.

"We want to thank everyone affected by the road closures for their understanding and support at this difficult time."

Additional reporting by Press Association