Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, has called on the community to assist police investigating the hit-and-run death early on Sunday of Marco Warren, a 29-year-old star footballer and father.

"I would like to extend my sincerest sympathies to the family and friends of Marco Warren, who are now grappling with immense grief and loss at this time,“ Mr Weeks said.

“One never can find the right words at such a time as this, so our thoughts and prayers are with Marco’s family, especially his young son.”

Police said yesterday that it appeared Mr Warren had been walking when he was struck. But Inspector Kenten Trott of the Roads Policing Unit cautioned that it was “very early in the investigation” to give further detail.

Mr Warren was hit on North Shore Road in Hamilton Parish, and discovered by a member of the public at 3.15am, but died after being taken to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

Mr Trott appealed for anyone with information to come forward and help find the driver of the fatal vehicle, insisting: “Somebody knows something.”

Mr Weeks said yesterday: “The loss of Mr Warren's life through such tragic circumstances is a shock to us all and will no doubt be felt throughout our community.

“Today, we stand united in mourning the loss of a promising young life, who was a shining example of our island's athletic talent.

“I know that the Bermuda Police Service will vigorously pursue the culprits in this incident and I appeal to anyone with information to assist the police in doing so.”

Derrick Burgess, the government MP for Hamilton East where the crash occurred, added his sympathies.

“Let me give condolences to his family, it’s sad and shocking and leaves people speechless,” he said. “I feel so sorry for his family.”

Mr Burgess added that he knew Mr Warren’s family, and that the mother of Mr Warren’s child resided not far from the place where he lost his life.

He said he would look into road conditions at the scene of the accident, near the junction with Trinity Church Road. Some roadside hedge has been trimmed since the fatal collision.

“It was not bad to the point where it would have impeded anyone’s sight, but they have cut it back,” Mr Burgess said.

“Certainly in the nighttime it could be dark, I’m not sure is there is sufficient lighting in that area, so I will check.”