West Belfast shooting: Murder investigation launched after man shot dead

While the victim, thought to be in his 20s, has not yet been named, he is well known to police, sources said.

Political representatives condemned the “barbaric” attack.

Emergency services were called to the scene at Rossnareen Park, off the Shaws Road in the west of the city, on Tuesday night.

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said paramedics were called just before 9.30pm, but the man died at the scene.

On Wednesday morning a large police presence remained at the scene.

Forensics alongside a K-9 dog unit examined the scene, taking away large bags filled with objects and blood-stained clothing.

The body of the male victim has also been removed.

Forensics experts were focusing on an area close to the Greenan flats.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Major Investigation Team detectives have launched a murder investigation after a man was shot in the Greenan area of west Belfast last night, Tuesday January 9.

“Police remain at the scene and cordons are in place.

“Detectives are appealing to anyone who has any information to call 101 and quote reference number 1714 of 09/01/24.

“Information can also be done with 100% anonymity via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph at the scene, Sinn Fein MP Paul Maskey said “no one in the area wants this at their doorstep”.

“This is a heavy footfall area, and the residents have made it clear they do not want guns in their area,” he said.

“My condolences go out to the family of this man.”

People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll said it was a “brutal and harrowing” act.

“My immediate sympathies are with the victim’s loved ones and my thoughts are with all of those impacted by this barbaric attack,” he said.

“This is an incredibly distressing incident that has sent shockwaves through the entire community.

“There can be no justification for gunning someone down in their home in cold blood. All right-thinking people will be abhorred by this shooting.”

SDLP west Belfast councillor Paul Doherty said: “The shooting on Tuesday night has sent shockwaves through our community, with police remaining at the scene as they carry out their investigation.”

He added: “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who has tragically lost his life.

“Violence like this is a scourge on our society and creates serious fear among people living in this community.

“There can be no justification for what has happened here.

“I would appeal for anyone with any information to come forward to police so that the people who carried this out can be brought to justice.”