Police re-open Strain murder investigation

Detectives from PSNI Serious Crime Branch have re-opened the investigation into the death of the 28-year-old shift worker, who was found beaten in his Carnhill Walk flat on June 3 1998.

An investigation was carried out at the time with a renewed appeal for information made in 2003. A number of individuals were arrested, but no one has been charged in connection with Charles’ murder.

As the fifteenth anniversary of the murder approaches, detectives from Serious Crime Branch have reviewed the case and decided to re-open the investigation.

Police are making three specific appeals for information:

- Detectives want to speak with anyone with information about the attack or about what led to the attack taking place.

- Three 999 calls were made on Monday June 1 about an assault at different addresses within the Carnhill Walk block of flats, but nothing suspicious was found. Public phone boxes at Bridewell Drive and Oakfield Drive in Carrick were used to make these calls. Police want to know the identities of the men who made those three calls.

- Investigators also want to speak with anyone who saw Charles Strain on the evening of May 31, the last night he was seen alive.

Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives on 028 9070 0727 or 07585 228 283. Alternatively, people who do not want to provide their details can give information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.