Ashley Smith of Wee Waa appeared in Moree Local Court for the second time yesterday, facing murder charges after being arrested at the Narrabri Hospital on Saturday afternoon.

The 22-year-old was allegedly one of a group of individuals who had followed the Inverell man, whose name has not yet been released, into the street after a confrontation inside a Maitland St hotel just after midnight.

As a result of this incident the 31-year-old was followed to Tibbereena St where the fight continued.

Police said the man was struck to the head several times before collapsing.

Emergency services rushed to the scene where they found the victim unconscious on the roadway.

He was rushed to the Narrabri Hospital for emergency treatment but local medical staff were unable to save him.

A crime scene was established which resulted in the majority of the Narrabri CBD being closed to allow a thorough investigation.

During Smith’s court appearance, no pleas were entered and he was refused bail.

His case has been adjourned to the Narrabri Local Court on July 28.

Investigations are continuing and police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information about the matter, to contact Narrabri Police on 6792 7199 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333.