I just wish I could have him back to annoy me again: sister’s tribute to murdered NI man Jason Lee Martin

The 31-year-old died as a result of a stabbing at a house in Orkney Drive in the early hours of Saturday morning.

An 18-year-old has been charged with murder and is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates’ Court via video-link on Monday.

His sister Jamie-Leigh Martin said Jason was the life and soul of the family.

She posted on Facebook: “No words will ever explain the heartbreak our whole family is going through right now.

“We are so humbled by everyone’s messages and calls, they haven’t gone unnoticed.

“We’re just trying to get our heads around this awful ordeal that has happened. I am not sure how life is going to be without him.

“He was the life and soul of this family and I just wish I could have him back to annoy me again, I would give anything.

“Not one person had a bad word to say about my brother.

“We are so hurt an angry right now.

“The next few days are gonna be unbearable but we have so many people around us to help get us through and the memories we will always have of the big edjit .

“Wish I would have told you more that I love you.”

Also on Facebook Iris McDowell wrote: “Soul destroying that someone’s life could be taken so quick. Such a great family to know, would help anyone. This family did not deserve this.”

Ballymena councillor Matthew Armstrong commented online: “Such unimaginable heartache and pain for Jason’s family and friends.

“My thoughts and prayers are with them.”

Jason’s murder is being investigated by the PSNI’s Murder Investigation Team.

Detective Inspector Kerry Brennan appealed for anyone with information to come forward

She said: “Jason died after he was stabbed whilst in a house in the early hours of this morning.

“An 18-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of murder and he remains in custody at this stage.

“I am appealing for anyone with information that could potentially assist the investigation to please get in touch by calling 101.

“Or alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”

Police said the 18-year-old who was arrested is to be charged with murder.