POLICE IN NORTHERN Ireland have named a deceased man whose death is the subject of a murder investigation in Newtownards, Co Down. 

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Major Investigation Team have named the deceased as 50-year-old Mark Dorrian, who was found unconscious in a flat yesterday. 

Detective Chief Inspector Neil McGuinness said: “A murder investigation was launched after a report was received that a man was unconscious inside a flat in the West Street area, just before 1.50am on Thursday, 26th December.

“Mark sadly died later in hospital having sustained a number of injuries, including head injuries. A post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

“Three people – two women, aged 58 and 33, and a man, aged 36 – were arrested on suspicion of murder. They all remain in police custody at this time, with detectives being granted a 36-hour extension to question them this afternoon.”

“My thoughts at this time are first and foremost with Mark’s friends and family,” McGuinness said. 

“Our investigation is at an early stage and enquiries are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances.  I am asking anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact detectives on 101. Please quote reference 98 of 26/12/24”

Police said a report can be made using the online reporting form on www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.