Omagh double punch death victim Jason McGovern

POLICE on both sides of the border have launched a manslaughter probe after a 19-year-old man died after he was attacked twice during a night out in Omagh, County Tyrone.

Jason McGovern of Tydavnet, County Monaghan, was found dead at a house in Emyvale, Monaghan, on New Year’s Eve.

Detectives investigating his death believe he was first punched at a pub on John Street, Omagh, at midnight.

Two hours later he was hit a nightclub at Kevlin Road around 2 am.

The victim was able to get home to Co Monaghan but was later found dead.

The PSNI and An Garda Siochana have launched a joint cross-border probe into the Mr McGovern’s death.

A PSNI spokesman said: “Police in Omagh believe that the deceased was assaulted by a male of stocky build with ginger or blond-coloured hair and would urge this male to contact them in Omagh to assist with their inquiries.”

A post-mortem examination is due to conducted to establish a cause of death.

“No further information is available at this stage,” a Garda spokesman said.

Police want to speak to a man of stocky build with ginger or blonde hair.

The death comes just after the PSNI’s Detective Chief Inspector Karen Baxter launched a ‘One Punch’ initiative.

DCI Karen Baxter launches One Punch initiative

Said the DCI: “December is traditionally a busy month for local nightclubs and restaurants with revellers celebrating the festivities.

“However, One Punch attacks can and do happen.

“Our figures show that since 2004, 20 people have died as a result of One Punch attacks and many more have been seriously injured.

“With just One Punch, lives have been destroyed and families’ lives have been wrecked.“

“Unfortunately the majority of these incidents are fuelled by excessive alcohol and can have a devastating impact on the victim and their family.

“In such cases the offender will likely face a murder or manslaughter charge and have a criminal record for the rest of their life.

“This type of conviction can impose significant restrictions on an individual’s future.”

Detective Chief Inspector Baxter added: “Raising awareness now of the dangers of One Punch is important, as many people will be out socialising in the run-up to New Year Celebrations and most students and young people are off for their Christmas Break.

“Our message is to enjoy your night out, but more importantly – Stay Safe.”