LAST UPDATE | 3 Jan 2022

POLICE IN DOWNPATRICK have launched a murder investigation following the fatal stabbing of a man in the town. 

PSNI detectives are appealing for assistance from the public as they question a man in relation to the death of the 28-year-old man.

Detective Chief Inspector, John Caldwell said the incident happened at 11am this morning.

“We believe that the man was stabbed in the Church Street area of the town around 11am today. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

“We have arrested a man in his 30s on suspicion of murder and he remains in custody at this time. I would appeal to anyone with information which could assist in our investigation or who may have dashcam footage to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 497 of 03/01/22,” he said.

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has condemned those responsible for a fatal stabbing in Downpatrick.

“I am deeply alarmed to hear of this fatal stabbing incident in Downpatrick.

“The very vicious, daylight and public nature of this attack is exceptionally chilling and I utterly condemn it.

“It is appalling to hear of this in our town and the local community will be understandably shocked.”

“There is absolutely no place for knife crime in our community and those responsible should feel the full weight of the law.  

“My thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family at this time and I would encourage anyone with any further information about this stabbing to come forward to the police as soon as possible,” he said. 

Witnesses have been asked to contact their local police station via the PSNI website or via crimestoppers.