Police have launched a murder investigation after the victim of an alleged assault died from his injuries.
Stephen Holmes (31) passed away in hospital today.
He was from the Strabane area of Co Tyrone.
His sister Zara described him as an “easy going, gentle soul” who was well liked.
She told the BBC the father of two was the “baby of the house”.
“He was everybody’s friend and loved his family,” she added.
Mr Holmes had been seriously injured after an incident at a house in Strabane in the early hours of Monday morning.
He was taken to Altnagelvin Hospital in Londonderry with serious injuries.
He was later transferred to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, where he passed away today.
Sinn Fein councillor Paul Boggs said it was a “tragic loss”.
“The outpouring of messages is testament to the sadness being felt across Strabane by those who loved and knew Stephen,” he said.
Another local councillor, Barney Harte, said it was “a tragic and needless loss”.
“The people of Strabane are shocked by the news of his passing,” he added.
Independent councillor Jason Barr said he was devastated for Mr Holmes’ family and friends.
He said it was “an unimaginable grief this family will have to endure due to no fault of their own”.
“Keep Stephan’s family in your prayers that justice will be served,” he said.
A man appeared in court on Thursday on charges related to the alleged assault, including causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
Today the PSNI said the charges will be reviewed after Mr Holmes’ passing.
Detective Inspector Griffin said: “Police received a report at approximately 3.15am on Monday, February 3 that a man, aged in his 30s, was seriously assaulted in the Beechmount Village area of Strabane.
“The victim has been named as 31-year-old Stephen Holmes from the Strabane area.
“Mr Holmes, who was in a critical condition in hospital, sadly passed away today, Saturday, as a result of his injuries.
“Charges concerning a 31-year-old man who appeared before Strabane Magistrates Court on Thursday in connection with the investigation, will now be reviewed by officers.”
More to follow.