A middle-aged man known as “Santa Claus” was pronounced dead at the New Amsterdam Hospital, moments after he was hit by a car at Main and St John Streets, New Amsterdam, around 22:00hrs on Wednesday.

Eyewitnesses claimed that the known substance abuser had, minutes before, left St John Street and, on approaching the Main Street, opted to lie on the main thoroughfare where he apparently fell asleep.

Moments later, motor car HC 6742, driven by Cort Edwards of Tucber Park, proceeded from the north to south and shortly after there was an impact.

The driver, assisted by public-spirited citizens and the police, transported the injured man to the New Amsterdam Hospital where his death was confirmed.

Meanwhile, a breathalyser test conducted on the driver found he was below the legal allowable limit. The driver is in custody as police seek the public’s assistance to identify the victim.