PSNI launch murder investigation after shooting incident in north Belfast this evening

Detective Chief Inspector Peter Montgomery said: “We received a report around 8.15 pm, that a man had been shot in the Cliftonville Road area of the city.

“Officers attended, along with colleagues from NIAS. Sadly, a man has been pronounced dead.

“We would urge anyone who was in the area at the time or who may have any information which may assist us with our inquiries to contact 101 or alternatively information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Part of the Cliftonville Road is closed and a number of diversions are in place.

Local People Before Profit Cllr Fiona Ferguson, who lives minutes from the attack, said this is not representative of our area, nor welcomed.

“There is never a place for gun violence or murder on our streets but this incident, with many shots reportedly fired, is particularly reprehensible,” she said. “The local community is understandably horrified. This is not representative of our local area and certainly not welcomed. My thoughts are with those impacted by the senseless act of violence.”

SDLP Oldpark Councillor Paul McCusker, The Deputy Mayor of Belfast, said: “I utterly condemn the shooting of a man on the Cliftonville Road area of North Belfast. This is horrific news for a family to receive and the wider community is rightly shocked.

“Those responsible for this shooting have absolutely nothing to offer our community and local residents should be allowed to live their lives without the threat of violence.”

“The community does not support these actions. There is no place for violence on our streets.”

“An attack of this nature is senseless and horrific at any time, but particularly in the context of a global pandemic that has left our health and emergency services under huge pressure.”

“I have been touch in with PSNI officials this evening and I encourage anyone with information on this brutal attack should bring it forward to the police.”

North Belfast DUP Councillor Dale Pankhurt tweeted: “There’s been a serious shooting incident on the Cliftonville Road near Manor Street. Spoke with police. Motorists are asked to avoid the area. Cordon will be up for most of tonight and possibly tomorrow morning.”

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