A MURDER investigation has been launched after an off-duty police officer died following an assault in Liverpool in the early hours of this morning.

Merseyside Police confirmed that Constable Neil Doyle, 36, from Liverpool and who worked from Eaton Road police station, died as a result of his injuries following the incident on Colquitt Street.

Investigations are at an early stage but it is believed he may have been recognised by his killers as a police officer.

Police were called to the scene, near to the Aloha club, at around 3.15am, to reports of an assault.

Two other off-duty male police officers were also assaulted and taken to hospital where they were treated for facial injuries.

One off-duty officer suffered a fractured cheekbone during the assault. Another suffered a less serious facial injury. Both have been discharged from hospital.

Detectives are looking for three men in connection with the incident. 

During a press conference at Police headquarters this afternoon Chief Constable Sir Jon Murphy, said: "This is a very sad day for Merseyside Police.

"The investigation is in its early stages and detectives are still trying to ascertain the full circumstances of events.

"On behalf of everybody connected with Merseyside Police I extend our heartfelt and sincere condolences to his wife Sarah and the rest of his family.

"Constable Doyle was enjoying a Christmas night out with his work colleagues. Around 3.15am this morning, Neil left The Peacock bar along with two colleagues.

"As they walked along Colquitt Street in Liverpool city centre they were subjected to an apparently unprovoked and vicious attack by a group of males.

"Following intensive emergency treatment at the scene, Constable Doyle was taken to The Royal Liverpool Hospital where he sadly died a short while later.

"His two colleagues suffered serious facial injuries. They have been treated for their injuries and have now been discharged from hospital.

"I would like to appeal directly to anybody who may have witnessed the incident or indeed anyone who may know anything at all that may be connected the attack.

“In particular we would like to speak to anybody who was in the Colquitt Street area in the early hours who may have seen something of value to the investigation.

"Finally, I would like to place on record my gratitude to the paramedics along with the members of the public who tried in vain to save Neil’s life and who provided aid to the two injured officers. “

Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Jane Kennedy said: “I am deeply shocked and saddened by this news.

"My heart goes out to the family of Neil Doyle. I am sure I speak for people across Merseyside when I send his loved ones, friends and colleagues our thoughts and most heartfelt sympathy.”

The flags outside police stations across Merseyside are flying at half-mast. No arrests have yet been made.

CCTV has been recovered from the scene and is being analysed by detectives.

Detectives are appealing for anyone who has any information to contact them on 0800 230 0600 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.