A 42-year-old man has died after being found unconscious following an assault in Ballymena on Saturday morning.

Christopher Houston, known locally as Cricki, was discovered at the junction of Alexander Street and Broughshane Street shortly after 5am on September 19. He was taken to hospital with a serious head injury and died on Tuesday night.

A 39-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm later that Saturday and has since been released on bail while police continue their inquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Hazel Miller of the Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed the death and extended condolences to Mr Houston's family. She said officers received a report of an unconscious man and attended alongside the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, which had already begun treatment.

Police believe Mr Houston was assaulted and are appealing for anyone who was in the Dunfane Crescent, Broughshane Street, or Alexander Street areas in the early hours of Saturday morning to come forward. They are particularly interested in anyone who witnessed an altercation involving Mr Houston or who may have CCTV, mobile phone, or dashcam footage.

The investigation is being led by the PSNI's Major Investigation Team. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 210 of 19/09/26, or report online. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.