Detectives have launched a murder investigation after a man was blasted to death last night.

The shooting took place in the Ardcarn Park area of Newry on Thursday evening.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene, police have said.

Ardcarn Park is closed to motorists and pedestrians.

SDLP councillor for the area Michael Savage condemned what he called “a reckless act that resulted in the death of a person”.

“This was a horrendous act on the streets of our city,” Mr Savage, who is chairman of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, said.

“It happened at around 6 o’clock when people would have been about, families would have been about.

“My thoughts are with the family of the deceased man and I wish to offer them my condolences. My thoughts are also with the people of Ardcarn.”