Man in his 20s targeted in "brutal and horrific" shooting in Newtownabbey

Q Radio News

A man in his 20s has been shot in the leg in Newtownabbey.

It happened at Knockenagh Avenue around 10pm on Tuesday night. 

Police are calling it a brutal and horrific attack and say they are trying to establish a motive.

Detectives are appealing for information following a shooting incident in the Knockenagh Avenue area of Newtownabbey this evening. At 10pm, a report was received a man in his 20s had received a gunshot wound to the leg. Police are calling it “a brutal and horrific attack.” pic.twitter.com/r5S2gt26cz

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) August 24, 2021

The PSNI issued a statement just before midnight on Tuesday:

Detectives are appealing for information following a shooting incident in the Knockenagh Avenue area of Newtownabbey this evening (24 August).

Detective Inspector Kerry Brennan said: “At approximately 10pm, a report was received that a man in his 20s had received a gunshot wound to the leg. 

"This was a brutal attack.

"Nothing gives these people the right to violate the human rights of people and their actions should be condemned by all.

"Those who are involved in these attacks do not represent the interests of this community, nor do they contribute anything to it. They do it to try and exert influence, or gain control of those they claim to represent.

"No one has the right to violate the rights of others.

“Our investigation is underway and we are working to establish a motive for this horrific attack. 

"I would urge anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who may have any information in relation to it, to call 101 quoting the reference number 1895 of 24/08/21.

"Alternatively, a report can be made online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

"You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/"