Murder investigation launched after man is gunned down in west Belfast

Q Radio News

Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man who was shot multiple times in west Belfast.

It happened at Rodney Drive in the St. James' district on Saturday evening.

Police say the victim, in his 30s, was taken to hospital with gunshot injuries and has since been pronounced dead. 

Police at the scene of a shooting in Rodney Drive, St. James’ area, west Belfast, this evening. It’s understood a man has sustained multiple gunshot wounds. pic.twitter.com/rjxQIcGIuf

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) December 18, 2021

Local people say the man was visiting his sick mother at her home.

Residents report hearing eight shots during the incident.

PSNI: Shooting, Rodney Drive, west Belfast.

A man in his 30s was taken to hospital with gunshot injuries and has since been pronounced dead.

Detectives have launched a murder investigation. pic.twitter.com/d4FFskm6sg

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) December 18, 2021

There's condemnation of the killing.

SDLP West Belfast representative Paul Doherty said:

“This incident has been deeply shocking and distressing to the St James' community. There is no place in our society for violence.  

“I would encourage anyone with information to come forward and assist the PSNI with their enquiries.”

Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan: “Today a local man was shot in an attack in St. James'.

“There is absolutely no place in our community for guns or for those involved in this attack. 

“A police operation is ongoing in the St. James' area and I would appeal to anyone with information on this shooting to bring it forward to the PSNI.” 

Scene of Saturday evening's shooting in west Belfast