Shooting in NI town was 'reckless act' with 'total disregard' for residents

Police said they received reports of a shooting in the Maple Court area of Lurgan around 7.50pm last night (January 2).

Police are appealing for witnesses and information.

Inspector Ruston said: "At approximately 7.50pm on Thursday, 2 January police received a report that shots had been fired at a house.

"We are extremely lucky that no-one was injured as a result of this incident which occurred in a busy residential area.

"Whoever carried out this reckless act showed a total disregard for both those inside the property and local residents.

"I would appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident or anyone who has information that could assist police with their enquiries to contact police at Lurgan on the non emergency number 101 quoting reference number 1682 02/01/20 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

Alliance Lurgan Councillor Peter Lavery expressed concern after shots were fired at a home in the town.

“This was a disgraceful act, which could have resulted in injury or even worse.” said Councillor Lavery.“This is a busy residential area, so those behind this shooting showed an utter disregard for everyone living there. There is disgust across the entire town about the return of guns to our streets.“I ask anyone with information on this incident to contact police with it immediately.”

SDLP Upper Bann Representative, Dolores Kelly MLA condemned the shooting at a house in Maple Court.

The Upper Bann MLA said: “Shots were fired at a house in the Maple Court area at around 8pm last night. This was a reckless attack that could have so easily ended in tragedy and I completely condemn those behind it. There is simply no place in our society for such thoughtless and unjustified actions.

Ms Kelly added: "I will continue to liaise with the PSNI and I would appeal to anyone who saw or heard anything last night to come forward to the police or Crimestoppes as soon as possible.”