Forensic probe under way after man murdered in Newcastle

A forensic team is conducting examinations around a house next door to the scene of a murder in Newcastle, County Down.

The body of Sean Small, who was 84, was found outside his home on Slievenabrock Avenue late on Sunday night.

A police cordon remains around the house, and at a neighbouring house where forensic officers are conducting examinations.

There is no suggestion that anyone in the neighbouring house is linked to the ongoing police investigation.

Sean Small was recently released from prison after serving a sentence for sexual offences.

In 2022, Small pleaded guilty to 10 sexual offences against a woman described as “vulnerable” and a teenage girl.

He was sentenced to three years in prison and three years under supervision in the community.

Neighbours have been trying to come to terms with what has happened in their street.

Many of the local residents who live along Slievenabrock Avenue are elderly.

The police have described how the murder of the pensioner has caused “shock and concern” in the area.

Detectives are continuing to appeal for information from anyone who was in the area or who noticed any suspicious activity on Sunday.