Stephen Holmes: Murder probe launched as Strabane man dies after 'vicious assault' at his home

A murder investigation has been launched after a man from Co Tyrone has died in hospital days on from a "vicious assault" at his home.

Stephen Holmes, 31, from the Strabane area, has died as a result of injuries sustained during a serious assault in the Beechmount Village area of the town at around 3.15am on Monday, February 3. He had been in criticial condition in hospital following the attack, and passed away today, Saturday, February 8.

Tributes have been paid to Stephen following his death, with the "devastating" incident shocking those in the local community.

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Detective Inspector Griffin said: “Police received a report at approximately 3.15am on Monday, 3rd February that a man, aged in his 30s, was seriously assaulted in the Beechmount Village area of Strabane.

“The victim has been named as 31-year-old Stephen Holmes from the Strabane area. Mr Holmes, who was in a critical condition in hospital, sadly passed away today, Saturday 8th February, as a result of his injuries.

“Charges concerning a 31-year-old man who appeared before Strabane Magistrates' Court on Thursday, 6th February in connection with the investigation, will now be reviewed by officers.”

Sinn Féin MLA Maolíosa McHugh has expressed her condolences at the death of a man in Strabane following a vicious assault. The West Tyrone MLA said: “It is devastating to hear that a man has passed away after being viciously assaulted at his home in the town in the early hours of Monday morning.

“My heartfelt sympathies go out to this man’s family as they come to terms with such an unimaginable loss. What has happened has shocked the local community.

"It is particularly horrific that this has happened in the new social housing development of Beechmount Village which is primarily home to young families. I would appeal to anyone with information which could assist the investigation to contact the PSNI.”

Local councillor Jason Barr added: "Devastated for the family and friends of Stephen Holmes. An unimaginable grief this family will have to endure due to no fault of their own.

"My sincere heartfelt condolences go out to the family of Stephen, his mum, dad, brothers and sisters, his two sons, family circle and many friends. Keep Stephen's family in your prayers that justice will be served."

Sinn Fein councillor Paul Boggs said: "My deepest sympathies go to Stephen Holmes’ family and friends as they come to terms with his tragic loss.

"The outpouring of messages is testament to the sadness being felt across Strabane by those who loved and knew Stephen. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

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