Murder inquiry launched after death in Downpatrick

Officers went to a house in Marian Park at about 12:00 BST

A murder inquiry has been launched after the death of a man in Downpatrick.

Police went to a house in Marian Park at about 12:00 BST on Sunday following a report that a body had been found.

A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Police suspect the case might be connected to a serious assault on a priest in St Patrick's Church in the County Down town.

Supt Norman Haslett said: "Enquiries are at an early stage and, at this time, we suspect this may be connected to a serious assault in the St Patrick's Avenue area of Downpatrick on Sunday."

Previously, police said a man walked into the church on St Patrick's Avenue at about 10:10 and hit the priest, Fr John Murray, on the head with a bottle before leaving.

Det Ch Insp McBurney said it "was a completely shocking and brutal attack and has left the priest with a serious head injury".

The priest was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, where police said he remained in a "serious condition".

'Two daughters left behind'

Speaking about the death in Marian Park, SDLP councillor Conor Galbraith said a family were now in mourning.

"It is really sad that this has resulted in two daughters left behind, grandchildren left behind," he added.

"And for what, we just don't know why."

Sinn Féin MP for South Down Chris Hazzard said: "The death of a man, along with the vicious attack on Fr Murray, has deeply saddened and horrified the local community.

"My thoughts are with all those affected by these tragic events, parishioners who were on their way to Mass this morning, and the emergency services who attended the scenes.

"I would encourage anyone with information to contact police to assist them with their investigations."