Belfast murderer hangs himself in cell

A prisoner serving a life sentence for murder has hanged himself in the North.

Christopher Stokes, 37, from Belfast, was found in a collapsed state in his cell at Maghaberry jail.

Staff tried to revive him but he was pronounced dead just before midnight. A ligature was found in the cell.

A Prison Service spokesman said: “The Northern Ireland Prison Service can confirm the death in custody of a prisoner in Maghaberry last night.”

The Police Service of Northern Ireland, coroner and Prisoner Ombudsman have been notified and investigations are ongoing. The family have also been informed.

Prison Service acting director-general Max Murray said: “On behalf of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, I would like to extend my sympathy to the family. This is a tragedy and my thoughts are with them at this difficult time.”