Man held in Belfast murder inquiry

Murder detectives investigating the death of a man found in an alleyway in Belfast have named the victim.

The 41-year-old was identified as Stanley McAuley, believed to be from the east of the city. His body was discovered off Chamberlain Street, in east Belfast, early this morning.

A 33-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder a short time afterwards remains in police custody.

It is believed Mr McAuley was seriously assaulted. Detectives are trying to establish a motive for the killing but do not believe it was sectarian. Police were alerted to the scene shortly after 1am and the man was taken by ambulance to the Royal Victoria Hospital.

The victim later died from his injuries and his family have been informed. Detectives from the PSNI serious crime branch confirmed they have launched a murder investigation.

They are appealing for anyone who was in the Newtownards Road/Chamberlain Street area between 1am and 1.30am who noticed any suspicious activity to contact them.