It is claimed three men were mowed down by a car and killed while protecting their community from looters.
Witnesses say the men - including two brothers - were on guard protecting shops at 1am today in the Winson Green area of Birmingham when the car was driven at them.
Two of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene and the third died this morning in hospital.
Witness Mohammed Shakiel said the car sped off after striking the men at up to 50mph.
The victims, aged between 20 and 31, were part of a group of men gathered to protect shops used by all sections of the community.
He added: "We got a call that there had been a car that had been set alight and a group of youths had moved further up the road. They put the fire out but there were still yobs on the street - they had no agenda other than simple stealing."
He said several cars then drove past the group and the occupants shouted abuse before one vehicle returned and mounted the pavement and hit the men.
Anyone who witnessed the collision or who has information in connection with the incident is urged to contact West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000.
