A MURDER investigation has been launched following the death of a 26-year-old man in Oxford.

Alex Smith, of no fixed address, was found with serious head injuries in the St Ebbe's area of the city, a week yesterday, and died in the John Radcliffe Hospital, in Headington, on Monday.

The cause of his death is unknown, and a post-mortem examination was inconclusive.

Detectives yesterday arrested a 38-year-old man, from Oxford, on suspicion of murder.

He was questioned at St Aldate's Police Station for several hours, but released later the same day.

He was granted police bail and was due to return to the police station today.

Police spokesman Rachel McQuilliam said: "The investigation, which was launched on Friday is seeking to establish the circumstances and cause of the death of this man.

"The investigation is at a very early stage and no further details are available."

It is understood Mr Smith had used the facilities at Oxford Night Shelter, in Luther Court.

A duty manager at the shelter who did not want to be named, said: "I am aware that someone who used the centre has recently died. I am surprised because I was not aware of anything suspicious about it."