A man believed to be the brother of a former Premier League player and well-known Irish sports personality has been shot dead in Barcelona, according to reports.
Fatal Shooting in Broad Daylight
Police were called to Carrer de Balmas on Wednesday morning after reports of a man being fatally shot outside a National Police office. A forensic tent was erected at the scene, and officers launched a search for the suspect. A CCTV image of a man believed to be involved was released, and local media reported that the murder weapon was found hidden in a bus stop at Placa Gal la Placídia.
Incident During Papal Visit
The shooting occurred while Barcelona was on high alert due to a visit from Pope Leo VIX, but authorities believe it is unrelated to the papal visit. The Irish Mirror reported that the victim is the brother of a former Premier League player who represented Ireland in his sport.
Community in Shock
A Dublin resident living near the victim's parents described them as "well respected in the area" and noted that the deceased's brother "did his country proud" in his sport. The resident said, "They really are lovely people as is his older brother who did his country proud in the sport which made him so well known."
Investigation Ongoing
The Daily Star has chosen not to publish graphic images circulating online showing the victim on the ground. This incident follows another fatal shooting in the Zona Franca last Sunday, which police are treating as a revenge killing linked to drug trafficking, according to ara.cat.
This is a breaking news story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
