Police in the North are appealing for information following the murder of a 'prominent Republican' in east Belfast.
53-year-old Kevin McGuigan was shot by two masked gunmen just before 9 o'clock last night - outside his home at Comber Court in the Short Strand area.
He suffered a number of gunshot wounds.
He was treated at the Royal Victoria Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
PSNI Detective Chief Inspector John McVea says the killing was 'ruthless and premeditated'.
Detective McVea said, “at this point we believe two men were involved in the murder, approaching Comber Court on foot. They fired at Mr McGuigan from point blank range, striking him a number of times in the head and chest. They had their faces covered and were wearing dark clothing. Afterwards, they ran off.
“We need to hear from anyone who has information about the events of last night, about the movements of the gunmen both leading up to and immediately after the shooting,” he added.
Mr McGuigan had been questioned by police in May in connection with the murder of Jock Davison. The PSNI say he was spoken to as a potential witness, not a suspect, and that remains their position at this time.
