Pictures released of three men police are hunting following Leeds road death

James Gilbey, described as a “devoted and loving son, brother and boyfriend”, was hit by a blue Volkswagen Golf GT close to the junction with Houghley Lane, near old Bramley fire station shortly before midnight. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

West Yorkshire Police are now urgently trying to trace Bradford trio Majid Malik, 27, Adnan Ahmed, 29, and Kesser Hussain, 22, in connection with the crime and fear they may be trying to leave the country. All three men are understood to be known to police.

It is thought that two men, of Asian appearance, got out of the Golf and tried to recover the number plate after the crash but sped off when they saw other people stopping last night. The car, registration LC07NNX, was travelling towards Pudsey.

Detective Chief Inspector Elizabeth Belton, of West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said the victim, who worked for British Gas, had been for a drink with a friend in Kirkstall and was walking home after getting a taxi to another address when he was hit by the car.

She added that his family were told of the death today and “are understandably devastated and clearly need to know why he has been taken from them in these circumstances”.

Describing the behaviour of the men in the car as “absolutely callous”, Ms Belton added: “It is absolutely vital that we trace these men as soon as possible and I am appealing to the public to help us establish their current whereabouts.

“We are certain that these men are aware that they are wanted in connection with this incident and that they are deliberately evading the police and may be attempting to leave the country.

“We urgently need to hear from anyone who knows where these men are or who has any information that could assist us in tracing them.

“The blue Volkswagen Golf is still outstanding and we would like to hear from anyone who knows the current whereabouts of that vehicle.”

Flowers were today left at the scene of the crash with messages in tribute to the victim.

One said: “James darling, with hearts breaking with sadness but full of joy for having loved you. RIP, forever loved, never forgotten. Kathy, Steve, Oli and Andy.”

Another message said: “My darling James, a sunflower for my sunshine, a rose for my heart. I will love you until my daying day. Love always from your precious ‘pudding’ Gaby xxx.”

The car involved in the collision is believed to have significant damage to the front of it, including a smashed windscreen.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team via 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.