Heartfelt tributes have been paid to a "true Belfast gentleman" who died following an alleged 'one-punch attack' on a Co Down beach.
Darren O'Neill, 22, died over the weekend following the incident at Tyrella Beach near Newcastle on Thursday, June 27.
The Belfast community has been plunged into shock following the popular car enthusiast's death.
Mr O'Neill was described as a "true Belfast gentleman" by one friend who said he was a "real character" and a "really lovely lad".
Football clubs across the city, at which Mr O'Neill's siblings are members, have paid their respects to the family.
St James Swifts FC held a minutes silence for the family on Saturday night at a presentation ceremony his brother Kyle was due to be recognised at.
"The Swifts would like to send sincere condolences to our player Kyle O’Neill and family on the tragic death of his brother Darren," they posted.
"Kyle was to receive a top Goal scorer award at our presentation last night, instead we held an impeccably observed minutes silence.
Rest in Peace Darren."
Shamrock Football Club posted: "All at Shamrock FC would like to pass on their sincerest condolences to two of our ladies players, Danielle and Nikita O'Neill and their family on the untimely passing of their brother Darren O'Neill under such tragic circumstances.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. May he rest in peace."
A special memorial event was also due to take place on Sunday evening in Mr O'Neill's honour.
One relative wrote: "My heart is broken to a million pieces I can't get over the fact that your really gone, far too early love you so much wee cousin I'm really gonna miss your cheeky wee smile and the laugh running up and down the hill laughing because you have forgot your car keys or only getting home from your night out."
Sinn Fein MP Chris Hazzard said: "There is shock and sadness in the local community following the death of a 22 year-old man in an incident in Tyrella beach. A police investigation is underway and that must be allowed to proceed.
"My thoughts and sympathies are with the family and friends of this young man at this tragic time."
A post mortem examination will be carried out in due course to determine the cause of Mr O'Neill's death.
Detective Chief Inspector Darren McCartney said: "I can confirm that 22 year old Darren O’Neill, who was admitted to hospital following an incident at Tyrella Beach near Newcastle on Thursday 27th June, has died.
"I would like to offer my sympathy to the family and friends of Darren at this very sad time.
"Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding Darren’s death and I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who has any information to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference number 1913 27/06/19."
A 21-year-old man has been charged to appear at court in July for grievous bodily harm in relation to this incident.
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