Man dies after one-punch beach attack in Northern Ireland

Detectives charge 21-year-old with grievous bodily harm

Tyrella Beach, where the fatal attack happened (Google Maps)

A man in Northern Ireland has died following an attack that involved a single punch.

Detectives investigating the case have charged an unnamed 21-year-old man with grievous bodily harm.

But they have also appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Officers said 22-year-old Darren O’Neill was taken to hospital following the attack at Tyrella Beach in Downpatrick, Co Down, on Thursday, but later succumbed to his injuries.

Detective Chief Inspector Darren McCartney said: “I would like to offer my sympathy to the family and friends of Darren at this very sad time.

“Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding Darren’s death, and I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who has any information to contact detectives.”

A post-mortem examination will be carried out to determine the cause of death.

The suspect is due to appear at Downpatrick Magistrates Court next month.