Police were attacked by stonethrowers

The man was found unconscious in Cromac Street after a fight broke out in a bar in May Street on Sunday.

He was Robert McCartney from the Short Strand area of east Belfast. One man has been arrested.

The police have launched a murder investigation. Another man, 31, was also taken to hospital with a stab wound.

However, his injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

It is understood the fight broke out at about 2300 GMT. Police are appealing for information.

Police carrying out searches in the Markets area of Belfast in connection with the fatal stabbing have been attacked by stonethrowers.

Earlier on Monday, the police pulled out of a search operation in Friendly Place after they were stoned by youths. Officers in riot gear returned later in the evening and were also attacked.