Toronto police are appealing for witnesses as they investigate the death of a young man who fell from a parade float at the city's Caribbean Carnival.

The 18-year-old had been riding on the float Saturday night when he fell and was run over by the vehicle just before 9 p.m.

Police say the young man suffered life-threatening injuries and was rushed to hospital, where he later died.

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On Sunday police identified the man as Rueshad Grant.

Officials are examining a video posted on the Internet which appears to show the immediate aftermath of the incident.

The clip appears to show confusion on the crowded parade route, with the crowd yelling for the float to stop as it slowly starts moving after a brief pause.