POLICE probing the murder of a father-of-one who was stabbed in Co Antrim are continuing to question a 25-year-old man.
Niall Magee, who is believed to be from north Belfast, died after he was attacked at a house in Crumlin.
Friends of the 21-year-old last night described their shock at his death after he suffered stab wounds at a house in the Cairn Walk area during the early hours of Saturday morning.
He was taken to hospital by ambulance but died on Sunday morning as a result of his injuries.
It is understood Mr Magee had been at the property with his brother and several other people when the attack happened.
Another man, Michael McManus (25) also suffered serious injuries to his eyes and face. He is a brother of murdered pizza delivery man Kieran McManus who was shot dead in 2013.
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Following Mr Magee's death police launched a murder probe and a cordon remained at the scene yesterday. Detectives are attempting to establish a motive for the fatal attack.
Over the weekend, forensic officers carried out an examination of the house and surrounding areas, while the grounds of a nearby church were also searched.
Four men were arrested by police in connection with Mr Magee's death.
Police yesterday said three of the men had been released on bail.
PSNI Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin said: "Four men aged 19, 24, 25 and 29 were arrested in connection with our investigation into Niall’s death.
"Three of the men have now been released on bail pending further police enquiries whilst the 25-year-old man remains assisting us with our enquiries.
"I would continue to appeal to anyone who was in the Cairn Walk area at around 2.50am on Saturday morning and has information which may assist our investigation to contact detectives."
Friends of Mr Magee have written of their shock at his death in posts on social media.
"Can’t believe what I’m hearing....one thing after another in this place," one friend wrote.
"Life’s so cruel. RIP Niall Magee, look after your family, wee son and girlfriend at this terrible time."
Another tribute said: "RIP Niall son, God bless your mummy and family help them through this nightmare".
Sinn Féin councillor Anne Marie Logue also told of how the "Crumlin community is reeling at the news that a young life has been taken in such tragic and violent circumstances".
"Whilst full details of what happened are still unknown, it is clear that a violent knife attack resulted in a number of people injured, one fatally, and a murder investigation is now underway," she said.
"Neighbours were shocked to find their small cul-de-sac the centre of large scale police activity when they woke on Saturday morning.
"Cairn Walk is a very quiet and settled part of Crumlin, largely made up of elderly residents who will be extremely anxious about what has happened in their midst.
"I want to extend my sincere sympathy to the family of the young man who was killed."
