01/07/2019

Man Dies After 'One-Punch' Incident

A young man has died following what police said was a "one-punch assault" on a beach in County Down last week.

22-year-old Darren O'Neill was left in critical condition after the incident on Tyrella beach on Thursday evening, 27 June.

Police confirmed on Sunday that he had later passed away.

A post-mortem examination will be carried out in due course to determine the cause of death.

A 21-year-old man charged in connection with the assault is due to appear in court later this month.

Sinn Fein MP Chris Hazzard said the local community is in shock following the death.

The south Down MP said: "There is shock and sadness in the local community following the death of a 22 year-old man in an incident in Tyrella beach. 

"A police investigation is underway and that must be allowed to proceed. 

"My thoughts and sympathies are with the family and friends of this young man at this tragic time."



(JG/CM)

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