Updated at 4.20pm
POLICE IN THE North have renewed their appeal for information on the killing of former IRA man Kevin McGuigan, who was gunned down at 9pm last night in the Catholic Short Strand area of Belfast.
The 53-year-old – an ex-IRA prisoner – was spoken to as part of the investigation into the killing of Jock Davison, another republican figure, last May.
He was shot by two masked gunmen outside his home at Comber Court, the PSNI confirmed this afternoon.
McGuigan had been out with his wife – and got out of their car to open a gate when the men approached him and shot him several times.
He was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital but died a short time later.
“This was a ruthless and premeditated killing, carried out in front of Mr McGuigan’s wife Dolores outside their home,” Detective Chief Inspector John 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.”
There has been condemnation of the death from across the North’s political divide.
Revealing more details about police contact with McGuigan in connection with the Davison killing, Detective Chief Inspector McVea confirmed:
“Mr McGuigan was spoken to by police as part of the investigation into the murder of Jock Davison last May. But he was spoken to as a potential witness, not a suspect.
“At this point in time, that remains the position. Speculation is not helpful and is potentially dangerous.
People should allow the police investigation to take its course and provide any information they have to detectives.
“I would also appeal to those with influence in the community to use all their efforts to reduce tension and appeal for calm and restraint at this very difficult time.”
With reporting by Dan McGuill and Christina Finn.
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