Man dies after New Year attack

Jan 10 2008 by Mark Cowan

A MAN attacked in front of his girlfriend hours after seeing in the New Year today died of his injuries in hospital after his life-support machine was turned off.

Lea Byrne, aged 24, from Frankley, was left with serious head injuries after being set upon in Ormond Road, Frankley, in the early hours of January 1.

Police said Mr Byrne was the innocent victim of an unprovoked attack.

He died early today after his family decided to switch off his life support machine.

A 21-year-old man from Frankley has been remanded in custody charged with causing grievous bodily harm to Mr Byrne.

Det Insp Richard Mayhew, from Bournville Lane CID, said officers were now liaising with Crown Prosecution Service lawyers to see whether alternative charges could be brought in the case.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time, particularly as it's so early in the New Year," said Det Insp Mayhew.

"Equally, I know this incident has greatly touched the community, who were distressed to hear of what had occurred.

"We understand the concerns of the community and hope to see a swift conclusion to this case."

Crucial to any developments will be the results of a post-mortem examination that is due to take place later.

Mr Byrne's family and girlfriend were today being supported by police family liaison officers. n Detectives can be contacted on 0845 113 5000 or people can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.