Man shoots himself in Wexford 'stand-off'

Gardaí are investigating an incident in Co Wexford this afternoon in which a 49-year-old man shot himself after a reported stand…

Gardaí are investigating an incident in Co Wexford this afternoon in which a 49-year-old man shot himself after a reported stand-off with gardaí.

It is believed the events started at around noon when a local auctioneer visited a house near Inch. It is understood a shot was fired as he was leaving the house and that gardaí were called.

After a number of hours, during which gardaí attempted to negotiate with him, it is understood the man emerged from the house and shot himself in the head. He was taken to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where his condition is described tonight as serious.

Gardai are investigating if the shooting was accidental.

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In a statement, the GSOC said it has commenced an investigation into an incident which occurred near Gorey, Co Wexford earlier today.

"The incident was referred to GSOC by the Garda Síochána under section 102 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005," the statement said.

"Earlier today, gardaí called to a scene in response to reports of a disturbance which included the use of a firearm. While gardaí were investigating this initial incident, a member of the public discharged a firearm causing injury to himself. The injured man has been taken to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin.

"A GSOC investigative team has taken control of the scene," the statement added.