Murder investigation launched as man found dead in Co Down

A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a man in Co Down.

Police say that the man was found dead in the Slievenabrock Avenue area of Newcastle on Sunday night.

A cordon remains in place on Monday morning, with enquiries still at an early stage.

Detective Chief Inspector Kerrie Foreman, from the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team, said: “We received a report at around 10.30pm on Sunday night, August 24, that a man had been found dead in the Slievenabrock Avenue area.

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“We understand this news will cause shock and concern within this close-knit community of Newcastle.

“Local people will see our officers in and around the area – with cordons still in place today."

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has said there is shock in the local area.

“The news of a man’s death in Newcastle and the subsequent murder investigation is deeply shocking and the local community are stunned to be waking up to this on a bank holiday Monday,” he said.

“For such a violent death to occur in Newcastle will understandably cause concern and I would ask people to avoid speculation and to remain calm.

“It is vital that the police are given every piece of information they need to carry out their investigation. Anyone who can assist should come forward without delay.”

Police are appealing to anyone with information or footage to contact them on 101, quoting reference number 1746 of 24/08/25.

A Major Incident Public Portal has also been launched for members of the public to share any footage and photos.