The suspect has been released under investigation by the police.

The man killed was identified as Jamie Symons, who lived and worked at the Ash Rescue Centre, just outside Dartmouth.

Originally from Plymouth, Mr Symons moved to Paignton in 2016 before becoming homeless. He was working and living at the Ash Rescue Centre, in Ash near Bugford, up until his death in Dartmouth.

A spokesman for ARC said of Mr Symons: “He lived and worked us. He was previously homeless. He was staying with us until he got on his feet. For the time he was with us, he was really hard working and a really nice man.”

Flowers were laid near the scene of the incident and included a message: “You were always so good to me and helped me at times of need. An awesome person, taken too soon.”

One tribute left a reassuring message about looking after his dogs including a black lurcher to which Mr Symons was known to be very attached.

The investigation is now centred around the post mortem held on Tuesday, October 3; forensic examination of the car; CCTV and the identification and interviewing of witnesses.

Police Sgt Iain Simons said: “The car under examination is a light silver-blue coloured, old-style Citroen Saxo carrying an ‘03 plate.

“We are would like to speak to any witnesses. We identified a crucial witness who when contacted, had thought incorrectly that they had seen nothing nothing of interest.

“Anything observed on College Way between 11.45pm on Tuesday, September 26 and 1.00am on Wednesday, September 27, is of interest to us in our investigation, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant it may first appear.

“Anyone who was driving on College Way between those times, whether they think they have seen something or not, could have vital information.

“Please contact me on 07702 443607 or 01803 837308. You can call 101 and quote log 26 of September 27 if you have any difficulty reaching me.”