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11:25 GMT, Wednesday, 19 November 2008

Death no longer treated as murder

It is understood Mr Doherty has been assaulted before

The death of a County Down man is no longer being treated as murder, police have said.

Francis Doherty, 62, suffered serious head injuries when he was attacked in his home on the Commons Road in Ballykinler on 16 March.

A murder inquiry was launched after he died in hospital almost a month later on 12 April. He had been on life support since the attack.

However, forensic reports have stated that Mr Doherty died of natural causes.

"In light of recent forensic reports, police are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Francis Doherty in Ballykinlar," said a PSNI spokesperson.

Two men were arrested at the time in connection with the attack but were released without charge.



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Related to this story:
Victim dies weeks after assault (12 Apr 08 |  Northern Ireland )
Man critical following assault (21 Mar 08 |  Northern Ireland )


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