POLICE in Belfast have launched an investigation after a man was shot dead in the west of the city this afternoon.
The attack occurred on the Glen Road at around 3pm near St Mary’s Christian Brothers’ Grammar School.
West Belfast MP Alex Maskey said the man had been picking up his son from school at the time.
'Disgraceful'
“This is a disgraceful and horrific attack,” said Mr Maskey.
“A man has been shot dead while picking up a child from a local school in the Glen Road area.
“It is deeply concerning that this killing was carried out in full view of hundreds of kids who were leaving school at the time.
“I unreservedly condemn this murder and my thoughts at this time are with the family and friends of the victim.”
We’re at the scene of a shooting in West Belfast. Police and ambulance service attending the incident on the Glen Road outside St Mary’s School pic.twitter.com/BBpxTrizsr
— Emma Vardy (@EmmaVardyTV) 4 December 2018
In a statement, St Mary’s CBGS offered its condolences to the pupil’s family.
“The thoughts and prayers of the Principal and all the staff are with our pupil and his family at this very sad time,” it said.
“Ensuring that all pupils got home safely was our absolute focus following this tragic incident.”
The school, which will be closed tomorrow due to the police investigation, has offered pupils counselling and support services.
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Police have released details of a man seen in the area at the time.
“Police are currently at the scene of a shooting during which a man died this afternoon,” said Detective Chief Inspector Peter Montgomery.
“I would like to appeal to anyone who saw a man in his 40s, wearing a high-vis vest with the words ‘Security’ on the back heading in the direction of Glen Road, as well as anyone who witnessed the shooting or was in the Glen Road area from 3pm today, to come forward and speak to police.”
An incident room has been set up in Musgrave Police Station and anyone with information can contact detectives there on 101 quoting, reference 741 04/12/18.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111,
