Assault probe upgraded to murder hunt

GARDAÍ yesterday upgraded a serious assault investigation to a murder hunt after a man died in hospital.

Anthony Byrne, aged 37, originally from Drimnagh, south Dublin, lost his six-month battle for life on Monday. He had just left his flat in an inner city complex with his girlfriend when they were set upon by a gang, comprising at least two teenagers.

Detective sources said the assault, which occurred on the night of January 18, was “vicious and unprovoked” resulting in serious head injuries to Mr Byrne.