The RUC has launched a murder inquiry after a man's body was found behind a primary school in Downpatrick, Co Down.
He was named by police as Mr Patrick Crane (38), who lived in the town's Ballymote Park. An officer said he had suffered severe head and body wounds in a "brutal" attack.
The body was discovered at 1 p.m. by the caretaker of St Columcille's School, lying by the school's perimeter fence.
An RUC Chief Inspector, Mr Geoffrey Gamble said officers were keeping an open mind on a motive for the attack. It is understood Mr Crane may have been attacked with a knife or a hammer. Family members identified the body and it was removed for a post-mortem examination.
The RUC has appealed for information. "We are appealing to anyone who may have been in or around the playground or the grounds of the school or on the Killough Road close to the school any time between 1 p.m. on the 15th and 1 p.m. today to come forward," said Chief Insp Gamble.
Meanwhile, the body of a Portadown youth underwent a post-mortem examination yesterday after his body was taken from the River Lagan at Lisburn, Co Antrim on Wednesday. Mr Jason Milsop (21), was reported missing three weeks ago by his family.