Merseyside Police detectives have launched a murder investigation following a fatal stabbing in Liverpool City Centre, Saturday 21 October.

Shortly before midnight, a call was received of a 21-year-old man having been stabbed at the Empire Bar on Seel Street. The man was taken to hospital and sadly pronounced deceased at 1.23am. His family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers at this time.

A cordon is in place while forensic enquiries and searches are carried out and CCTV and witness enquiries are ongoing. Detectives are looking to urgently speak to anyone who saw the incident, or an altercation in the basement of the bar.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Tivendale said: "Our investigation is in its very early stages but we initially believe that some kind of altercation may have taken place in the basement area of the bar, leading to a tragically fatal attack. We need to hear from anyone who witnessed an altercation, the incident itself, or may have seen, heard or come into contact with anyone involved.

"You may have heard words being exchanged or someone running from the bar. All information provided will be acted upon and may be vital in identifying who was responsible and bringing them to justice."

Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives on (0151) 7774814 or (0151) 7774065, call 101 quoting incident 1254, or you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously and for free, on 0800 555 111.