A 20-year-old man shot dead at a house last night was this evening named by police as Michael Rainsford.
The victim was murdered at about 11pm at an address in Harrington Road in Litherland when shots were fired at him by a gunman.
Neighbours today described Mr Rainsford as a "nice kid", who they know to say hello to.
They also said he enjoyed skateboarding with his brother outside.
After his next of kin were informed, detectives confirmed his identity as the hunt for his killer continues.
Police rushed to the home on Tuesday night after reports Mr Rainsford had been shot at while he was inside the house.
Damage, consistent with a firearms discharge, was discovered in a window by investigators.
Mr Rainsford was found with a fatal wound and he died a short time later at hospital.
In a short update, Merseyside Police said they had launched an "extensive" operation to find the perpetrators.
And they asked for anyone with CCTV or dashcam, along with people with information about the deadly attack, to speak to them.
Detectives are yet to specify some of the particulars of the murder, but locals said Mr Rainsford was inside the house when the shots were fired.
Onlookers, who rushed out into the street after hearing two bangs, watched as people close to the 20-year-old tried to save his life by performing CPR on him.
Onlookers told the ECHO this morning how friends or relatives arrived at the address shortly after the murder, close to Bootle Golf Course.
They were heard shouting in grief and anger in the street after news of the tragedy quickly became apparent.
Residents also spoke of seeing a person riding an electric bike away from the scene shortly afterwards.
One friend said "Absolutely heartbroken, he had his whole life in front of him."
Another added: "RIP Mikey.
"Can't believe it, far too young, one of the nicest lads ever.
"God must only take the best.
"Shine bright up there."
Police community support officers guarded the scene today as a short 50-metre section of road was cordoned off.
Forensic investigators wearing full white suits arrived some time later, taking photographs of key locations as they combed the area for clues.
Results of a post mortem examination are expected tomorrow to establish the exact cause of Mr Rainsford's death.
Detectives have described the murder as "violent and tragic."
A Merseyside Police spokeswoman said: "An extensive investigation is ongoing to locate those responsible and officers are urging anyone with information, dashcam or CCTV footage from Harrington Road or the surrounding areas to come forward.
"The victim’s family have been informed and are being supported by officers."
If you can help the investigation, contact them on Twitter, at @MerPolCC, 101 quoting ref. 20000205585 or @CrimestoppersUK, or ring anonymously on 0800 555 111.
