Detectives have launched a murder investigation following the death of 84-year-old Sean Small in Newcastle.

A report was received at approximately 10.30pm on Sunday, 24 August, that a man had been found dead outside a property in the Slievenabrock Avenue area.

Police cordons remain in place as enquiries are conducted.

Detective Chief Inspector Kerrie Foreman, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Major Investigation Team, said that while enquiries are at an early stage, officers are working at pace. She added: "We understand this news will cause shock and concern within this close-knit community of Newcastle. I encourage people not to speculate and allow our officers the time and space to carry out their investigation."

Chief Inspector Adam Ruston of Newry Mourne and Down said that more officers would be on patrol to provide reassurance to the community. He said police would be "relentless in our pursuit of the perpetrators and in securing justice."

Police have appealed to anyone who may have information, dash-cam, or doorbell footage to contact them on 101, quoting reference number 1746 of 24/08/25. Information can also be submitted online at psni.police.uk/makeareport.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.