A murder investigation has been launched by PSNI following a serious assault that left one man dead in Dungannon.
A police presence remains at the Lisnahull area today with the scene of the incident near Corrainey Park still cordoned off.
The victim – who is understood to be a foreign national aged in his 60s according to a Belfast Telegraph report – was found with “serious injuries” at a flat in the area yesterday evening (Thursday).
Speaking today, Councillor Deirdre Varsani said that she understood the public were “very concerned” and “upset” but stressed the importance of sticking to the facts and allowing the emergency services time to make their own official announcements.
Of the rumours circulating on social media in the wake of the man’s death, the councillor said: “It is so unhelpful when people put out information that is inflammatory or using language that encourages people to feel even more fear.
“I think what you need to stick to is the basic facts, you need to stick to information like which areas are sealed off, how you can assist, how to stay calm and not to repeat rumours because we are aware of instances on social media even last night.
“There were names being bandied about and they were not the correct names and that is just extremely worrying behaviour because that just adds to the difficulties of these types of challenging situations.
“I know it’s difficult and I know people do get upset and excited – and excited as in terms of nervous – but still what we would appeal to people to do is stick to the facts really until it is confirmed by emergency services.
“You can’t really repeat any information relating to any people who might be involved or the particular type of incidents.
“We were told from early on it was serious and that is the line we have stuck to until it is fully confirmed by the emergency services, particularly police.”
Detective Chief Inspector Phillips said: “It was reported that a man was found with serious injuries at a flat in the area. Police attended, but sadly the man passed away as a result of his injuries.
“The Corrainey Park is currently closed as officers conduct further enquiries in the area.
“Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and police would appeal to anyone with any information to contact them on 101 quoting reference number 1576 27/02/25.”
Information can also be provided to police online at https://www.psni.police.uk/report or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, anonymously and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.
