The man who died following an assault in South Belfast in January was a serving police officer, who was off duty at the time, it has been confirmed.
Detectives from the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team, who are carrying out a murder investigation following the incident, have officially named the victim as Colin Prime.
Mr Prime, 41, passed away in hospital on Monday having been left in a critical condition in intensive care following an incident in the Malone Road area in the early hours of Sunday, January 29.
Read more: Tributes paid to dad-of-two who died after South Belfast assault
The PSNI said an assault occurred between 3am and 3.30am when the victim was waiting for a lift in the car park beside licensed premises. It has been reported that an altercation occurred which spilled out onto the Malone Road, at the junction of Eglantine Avenue.
Three men who were arrested in connection with the incident remain on police bail.
Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin said: “My thoughts, and deepest sympathies, are first and foremost with Colin’s family who have been left bereft. Friends and colleagues are deeply saddened by Colin’s death.
“The assault occurred between 3.00am and 3.30am on Sunday, January 29th when Colin was waiting for a lift in the car park beside licensed premises.
“It has been reported that three men approached Colin and his friend before an altercation occurred which spilled out onto the Malone Road, at the junction of Eglantine Avenue.
“I can confirm that Colin’s occupation as a police officer had no bearing on the attack.”
DI Griffin has also appealed for anyone with information to bring it to police.
“We know that this area would have been relatively busy with vehicles at the time, particularly taxi drivers, and would appeal to anyone who may have been in the vicinity to check their dashcam for relevant footage.
“If you have any information which could assist our investigation, please contact detectives on 101, quoting reference number 1297 of 16/02/23.”
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