Murder suspect 'resembles Rooney'

Christopher Jones was in town with two friends when he was attacked

Police investigating the death of a man who was attacked in Cardiff city centre have said the suspect may resemble footballer Wayne Rooney.

Christopher Jones, 21, sustained head injuries during an incident in St Mary Street some time between 0430 BST and 0530 BST on Sunday, 14 October.

Mr Jones, from Marshfield, Cardiff, died in hospital the following weekend.

South Wales Police said witnesses had heard Mr Jones and his friends shouting "Rooney" as a man got into a taxi.

Officers believe Mr Jones and his two male friends became involved in an argument with another man at Cardiff's Brewery Quarter between 0400 BST and 0530 BST, and have appealed for more information.

A force spokeswoman said: "Witnesses to the verbal altercation report that as the suspect got into the taxi, Christopher and his friends repeatedly called out the name 'Rooney'.

Mr Jones and his friends are thought to have chanted 'Rooney'

"It is believed they thought the suspect resembled footballer Wayne Rooney.

"Crucially, the taxi driver may have heard this chanting and recognise the incident."

The suspect left the area in a taxi before returning a short time later. Police said Mr Jones was then assaulted.

The suspect is described as white with short blonde or fair hair, which was ruffled or spiked.

He is thought to be in his late teens to early twenties, of medium, stocky build and around 177 cm (5ft 8in) tall.

Mr Jones was taken to the University Hospital of Wales, where he died on Saturday.

Police are treating his death as murder, and an incident room has been set up at Fairwater police station.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the South Wales Police incident room on 029 2057 1530 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.