POLICE IN NORTHERN Ireland have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in east Belfast. 

Detective Chief Inspector Duffie said the PSNI received a report at around 8.25am on Tuesday of an assault in the Holywood Road area.

Police said it’s understood a number of intruders had entered an apartment building and attacked another man, before making off.

They believe the assault took place at around 4.45am that morning.

Officers and members of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service attended the scene and a man in his 50s was subsequently taken to hospital.

A 24-year-old man and a 49-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary with intent to commit grievous bodily harm. They were later released on bail, to allow for further police enquiries.

“Sadly, the injured man, 51-year-old Nicholas (Nicky) Gordon, has now passed away and a murder investigation has been launched,” Duffie said. 

“Our thoughts are with his family at this incredibly difficult time.”

The PSNI is appealing to anyone who was in the Holywood Road area on Tuesday and may have witnessed something, or believe they may have information which could assist their investigation – including any dash-cam, CCTV or doorbell footage – to contact them.