A gruesome killing in a family home has led to raids and arrests across Merseyside.
Stephen Maguire was shot dead in his living room while his six-year-old step daughter cowered upstairs in Southport's first gun murder in decades.
The 27-year-old bled to death after a gang of masked men burst into his home and shot him multiple times.
His partner and child hid upstairs while the violent tragedy took place before emergency services arrived at the scene.
Since the killing on March 16, a huge murder investigation has been ongoing as Merseyside Police attempt to catch those involved.
Seven weeks after the attack, three people were arrested over the murder following a series of raids across Merseyside.
As the hunt continues, here is everything we know about the devastating killing of Stephen Maguire.
Gun thugs send child upstairs before murderer 'devoted protector'
Shortly before midnight on March 16, a gang of masked men burst into Stephen Maguire's home on Guildford Road, in Birkdale.
The thugs reportedly told Stephen's partner Megan, and her young daughter Keisha, to go upstairs before they shot him in the leg and stomach, and left him bleeding on the living room floor.
Emergency services arrived at the home and rushed Stephen to hospital but he died a short time later from his wounds.
A murder investigation was launched quickly by Merseyside Police who issued a statement with descriptions of the gang.
Police said the killers fled the scene in a dark coloured Mercedes in the direction of New Cut Lane.
A fifth man is believed to have made off on a scrambler bike.
Murder linked to local feud and 'botched punishment shooting'
Shortly after the murder, a source told the ECHO that Mr Maguire may have died as a result of a "botched punishment shooting".
The man claimed Mr Maguire had fallen out with a Southport businessman last year and that this individual allegedly paid money to criminals to shoot him in the legs.
But the hired criminals, who it is claimed were not from Southport, botched the shooting.
The ECHO understands detectives do not believe Mr Maguire's death was linked to "organised crime".
But police have said the shooting was '"targeted" and are keeping an "open mind" as to the motive.
Family speak out over murder and share their heartbreak
After the violent murder, Mr Maguire's family issued a heartbreaking tribute to the dog-loving son and brother.
In a statement, issued through Merseyside Police, Stephen was described as a "protective" and "devoted" to stepdaughter Keisha.
They said: "Stephen was adored by his family and friends.
"He was a loving son to his mother and father and an amazing brother to his two brothers and three sisters.
"Stephen's unconditional love for his dogs was well known and they were never from his side.
"He would do anything to protect his family and friends, without a second thought for himself.
"Stephen was a selfless person who wouldn't hesitate to offer help to anyone, whether family, friends or complete strangers."
His partner Megan added: "Stephen was the most caring and loving boyfriend. Not only that, he was my best friend.
"He was a devoted stepdad to Keisha who gave the best cuddles, and will always be loved and remembered as an amazing man.
"Goodnight baby I love you forever."
Stephen Maguire's court date over assault and dangerous driving charges
Mr Maguire was due to appear in court in April charged with assault by beating, dangerous driving and driving while disqualified.
Just weeks after his murder, Liverpool Crown Court heard that the charges related to an incident on August 7 last year.
Stephen is said to have run over a man on Scarisbrick New Road and when the victim was said to have landed on the bonnet, Mr Maguire allegedly got out of the van and kicked him in the face and shoulder.
It was initially believed that the incident may have been connected to the local feud that led to his death but Merseyside Police later said is not believed to be directly linked.
A spokesman said: "We are looking at the incident as part of the background of the victim but it does not form a major part of the investigation."
Raids across Merseyside lead to arrests over murder
On May 6, detectives investigating the murder of Stephen Maguire arrested three men.
The arrests came after raids across Merseyside, in Liverpool City Centre, Norris Green, Melling, West Derby, Walton, and Allerton.
Three men were arrested on suspicion of murder, kidnap, burglary and possession of a firearm:
A 27-year-old man from Melling
A 21-year-old man from Liverpool City Centre
A 21-year-old man from Norris Green
The men have been taken to police stations across Merseyside to be questioned.
Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Wilson said: "The activity this morning is a significant step forward in this investigation, and these men will all now be questioned in connection with the offence.
"However, our extensive enquiries continue and we're still very keen to hear from anyone with information about this brutal murder who has yet to come forward.
"If you know anything, tell us now. We will keep taking positive action to make your streets safer, and to help Stephen's family and friends as they continue to come to terms with their devastating loss.
"In particular, enquiries are still ongoing to trace a dark coloured Mercedes seen making off from the scene of the crime in the direction of New Cut Lane.
"If you saw, heard or captured any images of this vehicle, be it the smallest detail, let us know and we will make an assessment."
Anyone with information is asked to submit information via the UK Police Major Incident Public Reporting Site, at the following link: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/05MP20M36-PO1 where it will be treated sensitively.
You can also pass on information anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 with reference 20000166174.
