Murder investigation, North Belfast
28 May 2010
Police have launched a murder investigation after a 44 year old man was shot on the Shankill Road at lunchtime today.
The detective in charge of the investigation, Detective Inspector Justyn Galloway, explained: "The victim was approached by at least two masked gunmen and shot a number of times at close range. He was taken to hospital but died a short time later.
"The killers ran off towards Conway Street.
"This was a cold-blooded, ruthless killing carried out on a 44 year old man in the community where he lived.
"It is a chilling reminder of a violent past that everyone in the community hoped we had left behind.
"Police are following a number of definite lines of enquiry and will work with determination and professionalism to catch the killers.
"At this stage, police do not believe the murder was sectarian.
"Detectives from Serious Crime Branch have been encouraged by the number of witnesses who have come forward with information.
"We will work with these witnesses to identify, locate and arrest those responsible.
"Police would appeal to public representatives and community leaders to exercise their influence for calm at this time.
"The shooting happened at the junction of the Shankill Road and Conway Street when the victim was approached from behind by at least two gunmen who were wearing high-visibility florescent jackets.
"Detectives are asking for assistance from anyone who was on the Shankill Road or Conway Street and who saw these men wearing the high-visibility jackets to contact them on 0845 600 8000.
"They should ask for detectives at Tennent Street Police Station," he said.
