Local residents "heard five or six shots" during a shooting in the Lower Shankill area that has left a man in a critical condition, a councillor has said.
Police were called to Hopewell Crescent at around 11.15pm last night (Sunday, February 21), following reports that a man in his 20s had been seriously injured.
The attack is understood to have taken place in an alleyway and has been condemned by local councillors who have appealed for calm following the incident.
DUP councillor Brian Kingston said: "I was down at the scene this morning and spoke to local residents and police.
"The shooting happened down an alleyway off Hopewell Crescent at around 11pm last night. Local people heard five or six shots fired. They don’t know who the victim of the shooting was and I am told he is in a critical but stable condition.
"There could only be speculation as to what was behind it and there is no indication at this stage. I would urge information is brought forward to police and would express strong concern that a gun has been used in this residential area.
"It is not wanted in any community, not wanted in the Lower Shankill community, I cannot remember the last time we had shots fired in that area. It does seem more than what would be called a shooting by appointment, it does seem to have been attempted murder, I would condemn that.
"I would be very concerned and would appeal for no further incidents or escalation."
Police have launched an investigation following the incident.
Detective Inspector Phillips said: "We received a report around 11.15pm, that a man had been shot in the Hopewell Crescent area of the city.
"Officers attended along with colleagues from NIAS. A man in his 20s has been taken to hospital where his condition is described as critical.
"We would urge anyone who was in the area at the time or who may have any information which may assist us with our inquiries to contact 101 or alternatively information can be provided to the independent charity crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
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