Murder inquiry begins after man shot dead in Dublin city

Detectives are trying to establish a motive for the fatal shooting of a man in central Dublin last night.

The victim, who has yet to be identified, was believed to have been shot in the head outside an apartment complex at Killarney Court, near Buckingham St, before midnight.

It is understood a shotgun was used in the attack in the north inner city at around 11:45pm.

The man died at the scene.

The area has been sealed off for a full forensic examination by Garda technical experts. The state pathologist has also been asked to attend the scene.

Investigating gardaí are trying to establish if there is a link with the shooting and a number of other incidents in the north inner city since yesterday evening.

A taxi driver was held at gunpoint during a robbery at Terrace Place, close to Buckingham Str, at around 7.25pm last night.

It is believed a shotgun was used in this incident.

The lone attacker made off on foot after demanding cash from the taxi driver.

In another incident, at 6.10am this morning, a 55-year-old man was assaulted during a robbery at nearby Mabbot Lane, off Talbot St.

The victim was taken to the Mater Hospital where he is being treated for minor injuries. Gardaí have arrested a 31-year-old man in connection with the two robberies.

The suspect is being held at Mountjoy Garda station under section four of the Criminal Justice Act.

A Garda spokesman said there was no link yet made between the robberies and the shooting.

PA