Gardaí track down car used in Dublin murder

Gardaí have found what they believe is the getaway car used in the murder of man in north Dublin on Monday.

James Purdue (22), a father of one, was shot twice at close range outside an apartment complex where he lived in Donaghmede in the early hours of the morning.

A dark saloon car was seen outside the gates of the apartment complex in the days leading up to the attack.

Gardaí located what they believe to be the vehicle in Baldoyle on Tuesday evening. A Garda spokeswoman said the car was still under technical examination.

Gardaí believe Mr Purdue - who was due to be sentenced next month in relation to the non-fatal stabbing of another man in 2003 - acted as a "drug mule" for local dealers.

Gardaí have begun a major crackdown on suspected members of drug gangs across Dublin city since Mr Purdue's murder. It is understood that up to 60 detectives are taking part in the operation.

Mr Purdue's death was the sixth murder in the north Dublin area since February.