At around 9.00pm on Wednesday 29th April police were called to a disturbance outside Murphy’s Roadhouse, on the Esplanade in Paignton.
The incident involved an altercation between two men and door staff.
In a statement, Devon and Cornwall Police said: “During the incident a 38 year old man while being restrained became unconscious and following CPR by officers at the scene, was conveyed by ambulance to Torbay District Hospital where he remains in a critical condition.
“Officers later arrested four men, aged 43, 54 and two both aged 35, in connection with the incident, who were taken to Torquay Police Station where they remain awaiting interview,”
The incident has been voluntarily referred to the IPCC.
Superintendent Glen Mayhew said: “I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward and provide information regarding this incident.
“We believe a number of people may have recorded the incident on their mobile phones and we are keen to speak to these people and view any footage.
“This is a serious incident and I can reassure the public that the matter is being fully investigated and would urge anyone with information to contact us.”
Anyone who either witnessed the incident or has any information regarding it is asked to contact police on 101 quoting police reference 710 290415.
