Banbridge, Northern Ireland – A man is fighting for his life after being shot in Co Down, in what appears to be a targeted attack. The victim, named Brian McCourt, sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen by a masked assailant in a carpark on the Rathfriland Road in Banbridge. The incident took place around 8pm on a Friday, leaving McCourt in critical but stable condition as of Sunday.
Authorities have arrested a 46-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder and conspiracy to murder in connection with the shooting. The suspect was later released on bail. Sources indicated that McCourt had previously been the target of a violent attack last year, which resulted in the injury of a woman and left two elderly individuals shaken after their property was vandalized.
Local politicians and community leaders have condemned the shooting, with Alliance MLA Eóin Tennyson describing it as a “sickening attack.” Tennyson extended his thoughts to the victim and called for anyone with information on the incident to come forward to assist the police investigation. Sinn Féin councillor Kevin Savage echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of holding those responsible accountable.
Meanwhile, DUP MP Carla Lockhart emphasized the need to allow the police to conduct a thorough investigation without speculating on the circumstances surrounding the shooting. UUP leader Doug Beattie denounced the incident as “appalling” and stressed the urgency of removing firearms from the streets. The community in Banbridge has been left shocked by the violence, prompting calls for unity and cooperation in addressing the issue of gun violence.
Police continue their investigation into the shooting, with forensic teams and K-9 units combing the area for evidence. The gunman reportedly fled the scene in a silver Peugeot vehicle, which was later found burnt out in the Drone Hill Road area of Corbet, near Banbridge. Road closures were temporarily implemented but have since been lifted, allowing normal traffic flow to resume in the area. Despite the harrowing nature of the incident, authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of the community.