Belfast murder: Tragic Paul McCready to be commemorated at football match

Police have launched a murder investigation after the death of 31-year-old Paul McCready, who passed away in hospital in the early hours of yesterday morning.

It is understood the north Belfast man sustained injuries sustained in the incident on Donegall Street, outside the Northern Whig pub at around 12.50am on Sunday.

A 30-year-old man was arrested at the scene and remains in police custody.

Mr McCready was a former player with Amateur League side Newington FC, who are due to face Linfield Swifts in an Intermediate Cup semi-final clash at Dixon Park, Ballyclare this evening.

Newington manager, Conor Crossan told the News Letter that the club intended to wear black armbands and hold a minute silence at the game as a mark of respect for their former teammate.

He added: “This has comes as a terrible shock. I have known Paul for a few years, I used to coach him when he played for the 2nds.

“He was very quiet, well-mannered and an excellent footballer.

“He suffered from injuries and when he came back he played for the 2nds.

“He was involved in coaching with Newington U8s and would have taken his boys down to training on Friday nights. We have requested that Newington U8 attend tonight’s match as mascots.”

Describing Paul as a “real family man” and “a really genuine, nice bloke”, Mr Crossan added: “Paul was quite shy. He was not the sort of person you would expect to get caught up in an altercation on a night out. It is very sad indeed and my thoughts and prayers are with his family.

“It will be hard to ask the players to go out and perform tonight, as a lot of guys knew him and would have played with him. Football won’t be the first thing on their minds.”

The club paid tribute to Mr McCready on Facebook this morning, stating: “The thoughts and prayers of all involved with Newington FC are with the family of our ex player and friend Paul McCready.

Police have appealed for information surrounding Mr McCready’s death.

Detective Chief Inspector Geoffrey Boyce:“We know that a large number of people were in the vicinity of the Donegall Street/Waring Street junction at around the time this incident took place.

“I would appeal to those people who haven’t yet got in touch with the investigation team to please do so. We are keen to gather as much information as possible about the circumstances and events that occurred here early on Sunday morning.

“Investigators can be contacted by calling 101 and quoting reference number 94 of 02/04/17.

“If someone would prefer to provide information without leaving their name they can contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.”

Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has said the man’s death has shocked the local community.

“The death of a 31 year-old-man following an altercation close to Donegall Street in Belfast city centre has shocked local people.

“My thoughts and sympathies are with the family of this man at this time.

“I would appeal for anyone with information on this incident to come forward and contact the police.”