The family of an Irish man who was killed in North Carolina are fighting to bring his children home to Ireland for his funeral.

The body of Jason Corbett was found unresponsive with head injuries following an alleged assault last Sunday morning.

He had been living in the United States for the last four years. He and his children moved over after he met his second wife.

Police received an emergency call in the early hours of last Sunday about an alleged assault at a house in Panther Creek Court.

Mr Corbett (39), who is originally from Limerick, was given emergency medical treatment but died at the scene.

The Davidson County Sheriff's office is investigating the incident, but say they are not looking for anyone outside the house in connection with his death.

Members of his family are now over there trying to bring his children home.

Dave Lynch is his brother-in-law and close friend.

"There was papers lodged in the courthouse here on Monday - the kids at the moment, as far as I know, are in the custody of...the Department of Social Services", he told Newstalk Breakfast.

"They have allowed the step mother to care for them while this is being sorted".

"The people that have the children now are the people that were in the house the night that Jason was killed, and the police have issued a statement saying they are not looking for anybody outside the house".

"We have grave concerns for the health and well being of these children" he added.

Anyone who wishes to contribute to a fund to help with travelling expenses, accommodation and legal fees can do so at:

TSB Dooradoyle, Limerick

Account No: 1124 0513

IBAN: IE15IPBS99075111240513

Sort Code: 99-07-51

BIC: IPBSIE2D