Co Down murder victim named as Mark Dorrian

Fri, 27 Dec, 2024 - 17:52

By Jonathan McCambridge, PA

A man who was murdered in Co Down has been named by police as 50-year-old Mark Dorrian.

Mr Dorrian died in hospital after he was found unconscious at a property in Newtownards with head injuries on Thursday.

Three people are still being questioned over his death.

Police maintained a presence at the scene on Friday.

Newtownards death — The scene in the West Street area of Newtownards, following the death of a man (Liam McBurney/PA)

PSNI 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.”

The detective continued: “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, Friday, December 27th.

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

“Our investigation is at an early stage and inquiries are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances.

Neurologist Dr Michael Watt tribunal — Detective Chief Inspector Neil McGuinness from Police Service of Northern Ireland’s major investigation team (Liam McBurney/PA)

“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.”

Local Alliance Party councillor Alan McDowell urged anyone with information to come forward.

He said: “This is a terrible tragedy and an appalling loss of life.

“Christmas is meant to be a time of joy, peace and togetherness, and for something so horrific to happen around this time is especially difficult to come to terms with.

“The town is in a state of shock right now.”

He added: “My thoughts and sympathies are with the victim’s family and loved ones at what’s sure to be an unthinkably difficult time.

“I would implore anyone with any information that may help police in their investigations to please get in touch with them, or report it anonymously via Crimestoppers.”