Eamonn Magee Jr: Murder investigation after son of former boxing champion stabbed to death

UK police — A police investigation into Magee's death is continuing Reuters

The son of boxing champion Eamonn Magee has been stabbed to death in Belfast. Twenty-two year old Eamonn Magee Jr, 22, an up-and-coming boxing star himself - was stabbed in the Summerhill Park area of Twinbrook, west Belfast, in the early hours of this morning. He died later in hospital from his injuries.

Rising boxing star Eamonn Magee Jr, 22, was stabbed in the Summerhill Park area of Twinbrook, west Belfast, in the early hours of 30 May. He died later in hospital from his injuries.

Police in Belfast have launched a murder investigation and have arrested a 32-year-old man in the nearby Dunmurry area in connection with the killing.

Detective Chief Inspector John McVea of the Police Service of Northern Ireland 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.

"I would therefore 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.

"Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111."

The boxing community in Belfast has been shocked by the news. Several well-known boxers with local roots have made Twitter postings.

The International Boxing Federation world super bantamweight champion Carl Frampton posted on Twitter to say: "Absolutely terrible shocking news about Eamonn Magee Jr. May he RIP."

Double Olympic bronze medallist and European champion Paddy Barnes posted: "RIP young Eammon Magee, murder by scum in Belfast last night."

And Barry McGuigan, former World Boxing Association featherweight champion and current president of the Professional Boxing Association posted: "Dreadful news about Eammon Magee Jr, deepest sympathies to his family.

Eamonn Magee Senior was nicknamed The Terminator. He became Commonwealth light welterweight champion in 1999. His most famous fight was with Ricky Hatton for the World Boxing Union light welterweight title in 2002. Magee floored Hatton in the fight, but lost on points.