A man suffered a cardiac arrest after being assaulted in Liverpool city centre in the early hours of the morning.
The 23-year-old victim is fighting for his life after reportedly being punched by three men, in Hanover Street, at around 3.40am.
Police and paramedics were called to the scene after the man was punched outside City Buffet restaurant before collapsing.
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Those responsible for the assault fled the scene in a blue-and-pink-coloured Hackney cab.
Merseyside police said that the victim remains in a critical condition in hospital.
Hanover Street is currently closed while police carry out an investigation.
Detective Inspector Louise Hooley said: "A man is extremely poorly in hospital this morning following this shocking attack.
“We have launched a full investigation to identify and bring to justice those responsible and appeal to anyone with information on who they are to come forward.
"While we have spoken to witnesses, we are keen to speak to anyone we haven’t yet spoken to who may have seen the incident or have any information.”
She added: "We have increased patrols in the city centre, as our pubs, bars and restaurants re-opened, with officers in both uniform and plain clothes patrolling key areas at key times to keep people safe.
"Sadly, we have experienced a number of violent incidents in the city centre in recent weeks, but Merseyside Police remains committed to protecting people who want to enjoy their evening in Liverpool and will not stand by and allow a minority to ruin that."
Anyone who can assist the investigation is asked to DM @MerPolCC or message Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook, quoting reference 21000465224.
You can also pass information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or contact them via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information.
