Police return to scene of 21-year-old's murder in East Belfast

by Q Radio News

Police investigating the murder of Reece Leeman in East Belfast have made a fresh appeal for information. 

The 21-year-old died following a serious assault in Kyle Street on Friday 15th March.

Detectives believe Reece had gone to an address in the area with another man, where there may have been altercation.

A short time after, he was discovered collapsed on the street on Connsbrook Drive with multiple stab wounds. 

A 28-year-old man has been charged in connection with the murder and detectives say they are not looking for anyone else at this stage. 

Police officers returned to the scene today to hand out leaflets and to speak to the local community. 

Detective Inspector Joanne Harris said, “It is now a week and a half on from the murder of 21 year old Reece and his family and friends are still trying to come to terms with their sudden loss.

“To date, one person has been charged but my investigation continues.

"Whilst I am not seeking anyone else in relation to Reece’s murder, I am making a further appeal for any information about the circumstances surrounding his death.

"I know that Reece had gone to an address on Kyle Street with another male sometime before 1:50am on 15 March.

"Some type of altercation occurred inside the house when Reece was there and he was discovered collapsed on the street on Connsbrook Drive with multiple stab wounds.

"I want to know any information which may help me to piece together his last movements in his final hours.

“Earlier today, local policing officers spoke with members of the community and distributed leaflets throughout the area in a bid to jog the memories of anyone who was in the area of Kyle Street or Connsbrook Drive between 12.30am and 2.30am on Friday 15 March.

"I want to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time – did you see any people or vehicles in Kyle Street? Did you see Reece leave the house at 50 Kyle Street or do you know the occupant? Perhaps you witnessed an assault on Connsbrook Drive? 

“I’m also appealing for anyone with information on people or vehicles that were in the area of Connsbrook Avenue, Sandbrook Park and the neighbouring streets during this period. Please consider if you have any CCTV or Dashcam on your premises or vehicle that may be of use to me?

“No matter how insignificant you think the information you have is, please contact us. Your information could be key to our investigation.  

“If you can help our investigation, please call detectives on the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference 51 15/03/19.

"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.”