Police launch murder probe following death of Ian Ogle

By David Hunter

Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a 45-year-old man named locally as Ian Ogle in east Belfast. 

Officers responded to the scene of a serious assault in Cluan Place, just off the Albertbridge road, on Sunday night. 

Mr Ogle was taken to hospital shortly after the incident, which occured between 9.30 and 9.45pm. He passed away in hospital.

MP for the area Gavin Robinson said he was well-known throughout his local community.

DUP Belfast city councillor George Dorrian tweeted: "Horrific attack at Cluan Place."

He added: "Horrible to think this should happen anywhere and no reason could ever justify what has happened in east Belfast."

He said he was well-known and popular.

IMAGE: (Alan Lewis) Police remain at the scene in east Belfast

Mr Dorrian said: "It has been barbaric and the level of violence, the level that was used, was a disgrace."

Senior Orange Order member and local minister Mervyn Gibson paid further tributes. He spoke to Q Radio from the scene.

He added: "The focus at the minute has just been the level of violence, the level of what has occurred here, people just could not believe the sort of violence that was used upon this man."

Detective Chief Inspector Peter McKenna said; “I am appealing for anyone who was in the area of Cluan Place, Albertbridge Road or Templemore Avenue between 9pm and 9.45pm last night who may have any information which could assist us with our inquiries to make contact on 101 quoting reference number 1303 of  27/1/19.

"I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have been in any of these areas and have dashcam footage to contact us.” 

IMAGE: (Alan Lewis) Searches linked to the murder scene are also taking place at nearby Pitt Place / Wolff Close

A forensic team is now at the scene of a murder investigation at Cluan Place in east Belfast. A 45-year-old man has died. Drains are being lifted and contents from them removed. Blood still lies next to one. pic.twitter.com/p2iJNS9ele

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) 28 January 2019