Former world boxing champ's son stabbed to death in Belfast
A man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering the son of a former world boxing champion.
Eamonn Magee Jnr, 22, was stabbed in the Twinbrook area of West Belfast during the early hours of this morning and died in hospital from his injuries.
His father is former WBU welterweight champion Eamonn Magee Sr.
The 32-year-old suspect was arrested in the nearby Dunmurry area.
Detective Chief Inspector John McVea from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said: “We are currently investigating the circumstances which led to the death of such a young man as Eamonn, who is a son, a brother, a partner and a friend.”
Police were called to the Summerhill Park scene at about 2.40am following reports that a man had been stabbed.
Mr Magee Jnr had followed his father into the ring and his death has sent shockwaves through the world of boxing.
IBF super-bantamweight champion Carl Frampton used Twitter to express his dismay. He said: “Absolutely terrible shocking news about Eamonn Magee Jr. May he RIP.”
Olympic medallist Paddy Barnes also tweeted: “RIP young Eamonn Magee, murder by scum in Belfast last night.”
Sinn Fein MLA Jennifer McCann said the community in West Belfast had been stunned by the brutal killing.
She said: “A young man has tragically lost his life and no matter what, he’s somebody’s son. This is an absolute tragedy for his family and the local community are in shock.
“I extend my condolences to the family of the victim and I appeal to local people to assist the police in any way they can in their investigation.”
Eamonn Magee Snr was known as the Terminator during his professional career, and he also enjoyed Commonwealth success.
Among his most high profile fights was the 2002 sell-out bout against ex-world champion Ricky Hatton in Manchester.
Since retiring he has worked as a trainer at the well known Breen’s Gym in Belfast.
Last year he was convicted of a drunken assault on his wife but avoided jail when his prison sentence was suspended.
Detectives have urged anyone with information to come forward.
Mr McVea added: “I would appeal to anyone who saw or heard any dispute in the Summerhill Park area, or who knows anything about this murder, to contact detectives at Lisburn Police Station on the non emergency number 101.”
