Deadly Co Armagh Knife Attack Condemned

Three men are being questioned about the murder of a 21-year-old man in Portadown on Sunday.

Then victim was Marc Williamson, from the Richhill area of Co Armagh. He was stabbed in Hartfield Avenue just after 4am on Sunday morning.

The PSNI said that three men, aged 28, 26 and 24 have been arrested and are assisting police with their inquiries.

Commenting, the Sinn Fein MLA, John O'Dowd said he was "shocked and stunned" to hear of the fatality in the town.

The SDLP Upper Bann MLA Dolores Kelly also said that a weekend of violent incidences has devastated families in the area.

Ms Kelly said the murder of a man in Portadown and the unprovoked attack of three men in Lurgan had stunned many in the area.

She was referring to how three men in their twenties were stabbed in Lurgan in an unprovoked attack.

A 23-year-old man was stabbed in the arm and stomach. He is in a serious condition in hospital while the two other men were stabbed in their hands.

Four people were believed to have been involved and the PSNI has appealed for information.

Commenting on both incidents of knife crime - one fatal - Ms Kelly said: "This has proved to be an extremely violent weekend that has left one family in utter devastation and others in turmoil over loved ones.

"Knife crime has become an increasing threat in our society and the carrying of knives can only lead one way. People need to recognise the consequences of their actions and the consequences of carrying knives.

"I offer my deepest sympathies to the family of the stabbing victim who lost his life and wish those injured in other incidents a speedy recovery from their injuries," she said.

The Alliance Portadown representative Harry Hamilton has also expressed his shock at the murder of a man in Portadown in the early hours of Sunday morning: "I am shocked and horrified at this murder. This attack was carried out by vile and callous thugs who have no place in our society. The local community is obviously very concerned that such a violent murder was carried out in the area.

"My thoughts go out to the family and friends of the victim at what must be an extremely sad time for them.

"If anybody has any information about this murder then they must contact the police," he concluded.

(BMcC/GK)