Banbridge, Northern Ireland – A man in his forties is currently fighting for his life after being shot in a violent attack last year. The victim, Brian McCourt, was targeted by a masked man in a car park on the Rathfriland Road in Banbridge at around 8pm on Friday. The shooting left McCourt critically injured but in stable condition on Sunday, as reported by authorities.
Authorities have arrested a 46-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder and conspiracy to murder in connection with the shooting. The suspect remains in custody as the investigation unfolds. Sources reveal that McCourt was previously involved in a case of mistaken identity, where innocent individuals were left shaken after a violent incident last year near the town of Banbridge.
Police forensic teams were seen at the crime scene, with a sniffer dog aiding in the investigation. Authorities believe the gunman fled the scene in a silver Peugeot vehicle, which was later found burnt out in the Drone Hill Road area of Corbet, near Banbridge. The roads surrounding the area, including the Rathfriland Road, were temporarily closed for investigation purposes but have since reopened.
Community leaders and politicians have expressed their shock and condemnation of the incident, labeling it as a “sickening attack.” Alliance MLA Eóin Tennyson extended his thoughts and well wishes to the victim for a speedy recovery. He emphasized the need for unity in the community and urged anyone with information to come forward and assist the authorities.
Sinn Féin councillor Kevin Savage echoed similar sentiments, calling for those responsible to cease their violent actions. DUP MP Carla Lockhart emphasized the importance of allowing the police to conduct a thorough investigation without speculation. UUP leader Doug Beattie described the shooting as appalling and stressed the need to remove such violence from the streets.
The local community has been left in shock by the incident, with residents coming together to support the victim and assist the police in their investigation. As the case unfolds, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward promptly to ensure justice is served. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need to address and eradicate violence in all forms within the community.