Police have opened an investigation after a 42-year-old man died following a serious assault in Ballymena at the weekend.
Christopher Houston, also known as “Cricki”, was found unconscious at the junction of Alexander Street and Broughshane Street shortly after 5am on Saturday 19 September.
Emergency services went to the scene. Mr Houston had sustained a head injury and was taken to hospital in a critical condition. Police confirmed on Wednesday that he died in hospital on Tuesday night, The Irish News reported.
Detective Chief Inspector Hazel Miller said officers believe Mr Houston had been the victim of an assault and described his death as “untimely”.
Police said their thoughts were with his family and friends at what they called an extremely difficult time, according to The Irish News.
A 39-year-old man was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of grievous bodily harm. He was later released on bail while enquiries continue, The Irish News reported.
Police appeal for witnesses and footage
Detectives are asking anyone with information about what happened to come forward — especially anyone who was in the Dunfane Crescent, Broughshane Street or Alexander Street areas in the early hours of Saturday morning and who may have seen an altercation involving Mr Houston.
Officers also want anyone who may have relevant CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam footage to get in touch.
Anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting reference 210 of 19/09/26, or use the PSNI online witness appeal form. Information can also be given anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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