Man stabbed to death in Ballymena named

The man who died at the Traveller’s Rest at Galgorm Road on Saturday afternoon has been named as Inayat Shah, a 67-year-old father of two.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Peter Montgomery, said: “Mr Shah died from injuries sustained in an incident on the Galgorm Road at around 3.30pm [on Saturda] afternoon. A 51-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder remains in police custody at this time.”

A 36-year-old man was also taken to hospital for treatment for minor injuries.

DCI Montgomery said: “My investigation into this brutal murder is ongoing and I continue to appeal for anyone who who witnessed the incident or anyone with any information that can assist with the investigation to contact detectives.

“I am particularly keen to speak with anyone who was driving on the Galgorm Road in the area of the PSNI Station or the Bus Station between 3.30pm and 3.45pm and who has dash cam or mobile phone footage to get in touch with detectives.”

Alliance Councillor Patricia O’Lynn said: “I would offer my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the man murdered in the Galgorm Road area of Ballymena.

“The police investigation is at a very early stage and I would urge anyone with information about this tragedy to pass it to the police as soon as possible.”

TUV MLA Jim Allister said: “[The] brutal murder in Ballymena in a place of shelter for many vulnerable people is quite appalling.

“To find the man who provided this facility fall victim to vicious knife crime is truly shocking.

“The swift police action and arrest is welcome. Condolences to the bereaved family.”