Brother and sister injured in Limerick shooting

A man was injured when he was shot outside his home in Co Limerick today.

Gerard Hennessy (34) from the Castleview housing estate in Newcastle West, Co Limerick was shot at about 3.15pm.

He suffered an injury to the right hand side of his body and was later airlifted to Cork University Hospital.

His sister Colette Hennessy, also aged in her 30s, suffered a less serious injury from pellet spray, and was taken to University Hospital Limerick.

Gardaí tonight described the injuries suffered by the two as “ non life-threatening”.

The attack happened when a gunman armed with a shotgun approached Mr Hennessy and opened fire.It is believed that only one shot was discharged during the incident before the gunman fled the scene.

Gardaí believe he was driven to the housing estate by a second man in a car who picked him up again after the shooting.

Gardaí are searching for a silver-coloured Volkswagen Passat car with an 03 registration plate.

Detectives would not be drawn on a motive for the shooting.

The scene of the attack was sealed off for a full technical examination.

An incident room has been set up at Newcastle West Garda station. Gardaí have appealed for any witnesses to contact the station on 069 20650, or to use the Garda confidential telephone line 1800 666 111.