FIVE people arrested by detectives investigating a fatal hit-and-run traffic collision on the Stewartstown Road in west Belfast earlier this year have been released to be reported to the Public Prosecution Service.

The five were arrested at various times throughout the year, but returned for questioning today, Tuesday, November 9.

Local man Richard Gerard Boyle, who was walking his dog, was struck by a vehicle on the night of Friday, February 5. 

He was taken to hospital where he tragically died.

One woman (aged 24) and four men (aged 21, 23, 24 and 46) were arrested on suspicion of a number of offences. 

The woman and the 46-year-old man were both arrested on suspicion of withholding information and assisting offenders; the 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of offences including arson, withholding information and perverting the course of justice; and the 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson, withholding information and assisting offenders.

The 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and other traffic-related offences.

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101, quoting reference number 1997 of 05/02/21.

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org