By Michael Donoghue, Vermont News First

Vermont News First has been told Burlington Police are investigating an early morning stabbing homicide behind Courthouse Plaza on Main Street near South Winooski Avenue.

The homicide happened about 4 a.m. and was part of a hectic night for Burlington Police.

The stabbing victim is believed to be a young man in his early 20s, VNF was told. He was taken to the University of Vermont Medical Center where he later died, Vermont News First was told.

City Police also are investigating a shooting near Church and King Streets shortly before the homicide, VNF was told. It is a block away from the homicide, but is believed unrelated to the killing, Vermont News First was told by a person familiar with the case, but not authorized to speak about it.

City officers also responded to a possible stabbing in City Hall Park overnight. Some young people may have gotten into a confrontation with some of the homeless people, according to one source.

Courthouse Plaza is just east of the Vermont Superior Courthouse, which houses the Civil and Probate Divisions.

The multi-story building was the longtime home office for U.S. Sen. Patrick J. Leahy, D-Vt. and now is used by U.S. Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt. It also is the home of Downs Rachlin Martin, one of Vermont best known law firms.