Detectives have released CCTV images in their hunt for a man wanted in connection with a crash that left three teenagers dead.

Scotland Yard said police believe that at least two men were travelling in a black Audi that mounted the pavement and struck teenagers Harry Rice, George Wilkinson and Josh Kennedy, who all died at the scene in Hayes, west London on Friday night.

A 28-year-old man tried to flee after the crash but was arrested after being detained by members of the public. Police said late on Saturday that they were still hunting for a second man who also fled.

On Sunday afternoon, the Met released a CCTV image of a man who they believe was travelling in the Audi at the time of the crash.

Police have not ruled out more passengers being in the car.

Detective Sergeant Michael Rapp of the Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “While the images are not of good quality, I am convinced that anyone who knows this male will recognise him. I urge anyone who can identify him or provide details of his whereabouts to contact my team without delay.

“Three young men have lost their lives as a result of this incident; such tragic circumstances must far outweigh any taboo around assisting police.”

The three victims were pronounced dead at the scene in Shepiston Lane at about 8.40pm on Friday. Other people who were standing alongside the boys escaped unharmed.

The boys had been on their way to a 16th birthday party that was happening nearby. It was cancelled after the fatal crash.

One of the victims, Harry, had reportedly signed with semi-professional football club Farnborough Town FC following a successful trial but left the club a few weeks ago.

Academy manager Marc Wardley told Sky News the teenager was a "quiet and really nice lad who got on with things, and who could have gone on to play at a decent level”.

One tribute left at the scene read: "George Boy, I love you so much, love Kev, Vinnie."

Another said: "I thought I would never have to write this and I don't know what to write but I will always love and miss you millions."

Elsewhere, a card read "To my bro, always together forever," while a fourth said: "To my darling baby boi my heart is broken, love mum, Vinnie."

Tony Kitchin, 44, who works as a security guard at a haulage firm near the scene of the tragedy, said: "This road is busy 24/7. It's a speed trap.

"I'm really surprised we haven't had more horrific accidents like this."

He added: "No parent should have to deal with that. My heartfelt sympathies go out to the family and friends of the people who lost their lives last night."

Witnesses are urged to contact police. The 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

He was taken to a west London hospital for treatment and was subsequently taken to a north London police station where he remained in custody on Sunday afternoon.

Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit directly on 0208 991 9555 quoting ref 7843 of 26 January, or call 101 or tweet @MetCC. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

Anyone with information should call the Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0208 991 9555 or via Twitter @MetCC or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.