Murder investigation launched after man dies following break-in

A murder investigation has been launched after a 51-year-old man died following a break-in at an apartment building in east Belfast.

Nicholas (Nicky) Gordon was attacked as a number of intruders entered an apartment on the Holywood Road early on Tuesday morning.

He was taken to hospital but has since died from his injuries.

A 24-year-old man and 49-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary with intent to commit grievous bodily harm, but were later released on bail.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said it would "continue to work at pace to seek others who may be involved".

Police received a report of the assault at about 08:25 BST on Tuesday.

The incident is believed to have happened at about 04:45.

Det Ch Insp Duffie said a "number of intruders" entered the apartment building and "attacked another male, before making off".

The ambulance service were also at the scene.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.

Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) MLA David Brook said incidents like this created "fear" and "worry" in the community.

"It's not something that you expect to happen in your local community, but the nature of this being a break-in, people worry about their own homes and security as well."

Alliance Party MLA Peter McReynolds said the community was in "shock".

He said such incidents did not normally happen in the area.