Investigation launched when 42-year-old man dies in hospital days after assault in Ballymena
Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Major Investigation Team are carrying out an investigation into the death of a man following an assault in Ballymena in the early hours of Saturday morning, 19th September.
Detective Chief Inspector Hazel Miller said: “We can confirm that Mr Christopher Houston, who was 42 years old, sadly passed away last night, and our thoughts are, first and foremost, with his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.
“Police received a report at around 5.05am on 19th September of an unconscious male at the junction of Alexander Street and Broughshane Street in the town. Officers attended the scene where colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service were already providing medical treatment.
“We believe that Christopher, who was also known as ‘Cricki’, had been the victim of an assault and sustained a head injury.
"He was transferred to hospital, where he remained in a critical condition until his untimely death.
“A 39-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm on Saturday and subsequently released on bail to allow for further police enquiries.”
Detective Chief Inspector Miller has appealed to anyone with information to come forward.
She continued: “I am asking anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to get in touch.
"I’m particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the area of Dunfane Crescent or the area of Broughshane Street and Alexander Street in early hours of Saturday morning, and who may have witnessed any altercation involving Mr Houston during that time.
“We would also like to hear from anyone who may have captured footage, whether CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam.
“You can contact officers on 101 or report online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport quoting reference number 210 of 19/09/26.”
Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, with total anonymity, on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org