A recently released prisoner is the prime suspect for the murder of a man who answered a midnight call to his home.
Jason Ryan was stabbed several times and later died when his attacker called at his front door in Hollyville Heights in Wexford late last night.
Gardai believe the 27-year-old, originally from Ferndale in the town but living in the estate with his partner, fell out on to the street after being stabbed.
It is believed the altercation between the two men continued outside the house as Mr Ryan tried to fight off his attacker.
Senior detectives in the region said they are following a definite line of inquiry.
It is understood Mr Ryan had been in a relationship with his attacker's ex-girlfriend.
The suspect was released early from a five year jail sentence for an assault in Wexford in 2007 in which a man was left in a coma.
He is believed to be from the outskirts of Wexford town.
It is understood Mr Ryan, who had a number of convictions, had been living in rented accommodation in Hollyville with his girlfriend.
A Garda spokesman said he suffered several stab wounds in the attack and was taken to Wexford General Hospital in the early hours after Mr Ryan's partner called the ambulance.
He died as a result of his injuries several hours later.
Gardai believe the row between the two men spilled out on to the street after Mr Ryan was initially stabbed in the doorway of the home.
A spokesman confirmed several crime scenes have been identified.
Mr Ryan's home has been sealed off for forensic examinations and the Garda Technical Bureau and staff from the state pathologist's office were also called in.
A house in the nearby Talbot Green area has been sealed off and a car is also being inspected as part of the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Wexford Garda station on 053 9165200, the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
PA