POLICE have launched a murder inquiry after a young dad of two was killed in Greenock at the weekend.

Stephen McGowan, 23, was found seriously injured in a close on Tobago Street around 3.20am yesterday morning.

Although emergency services rushed to his aid he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police initially declared the incident as a suspicious death until confirming late last night, following a post-mortem, that Stephen had been murdered.

A heavy police presence has been in place at the scene since the tragedy.

Officers sealed off a series of town centre streets as a massive inquiry got under way.

Tobago Street, Sir Michael Street, Buccleugh Street and Sir Michael Place were all cordoned off.

Teams of police were seen combing the streets and onlookers said officers were in attendance with shovels as a detailed search of the area was carried out.

Part of Lynedoch Street, just a few minutes walk away, was also sealed off, along with Lyle Street, in connection with the investigation.

The detective leading the murder hunt said this morning that people who were out in Greenock on Saturday night could have crucial information to help catch the killer.

Senior Investigating Officer, DCI Jim Smith, from the Major Investigation Team, said: “Mr McGowan was found in a common close in Tobago Street in the town with serious injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

“I am appealing for witnesses to come forward and assist us with this investigation.

“We have had an excellent response from the public so far, however I’m still keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the vicinity of the James Watt Wetherspoons Bar, Waterline Bar or Red nightclub in the Cathcart Street area of Greenock around 3.20am on Sunday morning.

“I am keen to confirm the last movements of Mr McGowan and again ask anyone who may have met or spoken with him in the early hours of Sunday 27 July 2014 to get in touch through 101, or alternatively through CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”