Murder probe following Belfast death

A murder investigation was launched today after the death of a man who was assaulted almost a month ago.

Police in the north believe 62-year-old John Francis Doherty was the victim of an attack in a house in Co Down in the early hours of Sunday, March 16.

Mr Doherty, who sustained serious head injuries in the assault in Commons Road, Ballykinler, has died in hospital.

“This is now being treated as murder and enquiries are continuing,” said a PSNI spokeswoman.

“Police are appealing for anyone who has information relating to this incident to contact them.”

Five men have been arrested in connection with the incident, but all have been released on bail pending further inquiries.