A 30-year-old man was left fighting for his life after suffering a serious brain haemorrhage at a Basildon nightclub.
Detectives are trying to piece together the vital moments before the man, believed to live in Corringham, collapsed in the middle of a 500-strong crowd of dancers at the Time nightclub in The Square, on Sunday morning.
The man - whose name has not yet been released by Essex Police - was rushed to Basildon hospital but his injuries were considered so serious he was immediately taken to Kings College hospital in Camberwell, London and put on a life support machine.
It is understood his father, from the north of England, was now at the man's side.
Essex Ambulance Service confirmed crews were called to nightclub at around 1.45am Sunday and took the man to Basildon hospital.
A police spokesman said: "He collapsed on the dance floor at about 1.45am Sunday, shortly before the club closed. But it is not known if he sustained the injuries as a result of the fall or from any other cause."
DS Joel Henderson of Basildon CID said: "Surgeons believe the man suffered a serious brain haemorrhage. "There were no visible injuries to his head or face so there is no suggestion he was hit or that there were drugs involved."
Police are anxious to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident, both prior to and following his collapse.
If you have any information contact Basildon CID on 01268 532212
Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article