A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man died following a late-night attack.

The victim was rushed to Southampton General Hospital after the alleged assault, which happened at about 4am on Sunday.

Doctors battled to save him but officers have announced that he has died.

It has been confirmed that the man who tragically died is Gary Stacey, 49, of Carisbrooke on the Isle of Wight, and a post mortem is being carried out.

Detectives arrested two 20-year-old men and a 21-year-old man in connection with the incident.

The 21-year-old and one of the 20-year-olds have been released with no further action but the remaining 20-year-old is continuing to be questioned on suspicion of murder.

Police believe the man was attacked on St James' Street in Newport on the Isle of Wight and have cordoned off an area of the road after he was found injured.

The cordon has since been lifted but police are keen to speak anyone who has information on the incident.

A Hampshire Police spokeswoman said: "Please avoid the area today as police continue to investigate the circumstances of the incident.

"Anyone who may have witnessed the assault, or has any information, should contact police on 101 quoting incident #157."