'Brutal and senseless' – Woman arrested after fisherman beaten to death in Northern Ireland
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'Brutal and senseless' – Woman arrested after fisherman beaten to death in Northern Ireland

A WOMAN has been arrested in connection with the murder of a fisherman in Co. Down.

Stefan Zait, 45, who was originally from Romania, was assaulted in Ardglass shortly before 11am on Tuesday.

Mr Zait passed away in hospital yesterday two days after suffering serious head injuries in the broad daylight attack.

The 40-year-old woman was arrested last night and is being questioned by police.

A man, 20, who was arrested on Wednesday night remains in police custody.

Another man, 23, was also arrested after the attack but has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Family devastated

In a statement, DCI Eamonn Corrigan of the PSNI said Mr Zait died as the result of a "brutal and senseless attack".

He added: "Stefan was originally from Romania and had been living in Northern Ireland for six years.

"He was making a living by working on the fishing vessels in the harbour.

"His family are devastated and they deserve to know what happened to him."

A representative from Continuity Sinn Féin Tyrone told The Irish Post: “Stefan was well liked in his community and gave his all in the community.

"He also had a smile and a chat for all, winter and summer in all weather.”

Appeal

Mr Zait was attacked near Downpatrick Road and Strangford Road, the two main roads in the village.

Police would particularly like to hear from anyone travelling on buses in the area who may have witnessed the incident, or motorists who may have captured the incident on dash-cam.

Anyone with information should contact detectives on 101 quoting reference number 377 22/05/18.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.