Castlederg: Murder investigation launched after stabbing victim dies

Police cordoned off part of Main Street, Castlederg, after Saturday's stabbing

A murder investigation has begun after a man stabbed in Castlederg, County Tyrone, died on Monday, two days after the incident.

Conor Browne had been critically ill in hospital after he was stabbed outside a pub in Main Street in the early hours of Saturday.

The 28-year-old, who was from the area, suffered multiple wounds, including to his neck and chest.

Police investigating the incident have made five arrests.

Two men, aged 27 and 31, were arrested on Monday night.

Before Mr Browne's death, detectives had arrested three men on suspicion of attempted murder.

A 27-year-old man was arrested on Saturday and later released on police bail to allow for further inquiries.

A 28-year-old man was detained on Saturday evening and another 28-year-old man was arrested on Monday morning.

Both these men remain in custody, along with those who were detained on Monday night.

The stabbing happened outside a pub

Sinn Féin Councillor Ruairi McHugh, who is a friend of the victim's family, described the death of Mr Browne as "devastating news".

"A lot of people are feeling very sickened by the fact that this cruel incident has visited our community in Castlederg," said Mr McHugh.

"He was always a very pleasant and good natured fellow. He seemed to be very popular among his peers, always the life and soul of the party.

"It's just absolutely devastating that a young man, 28 years of age with a young child, ends up losing his life in such tragic circumstances."

Sport clubs pay tribute

Castlederg Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) club Caisleán na Deirge Naomh Eoghan has paid tribute to Mr Browne on its Facebook page.

"Conor Browne was a hard working, civil, funny and thoughtful young man," the club said.

"Conor always wore the biggest smile and would have done anything for anyone. One of the real good guys," it added.

"For Conor to lose his life in the way he did is so hard to take in for our whole community."

Earlier on Monday evening, soccer players from St Patrick's Football Club in Castlederg held a minute's silence as a mark of respect for Mr Browne.

"Our thoughts go out to the entire family and to our own club members who this has affected," they said.

Police have appealed for anyone with information about the stabbing to come forward.