By Angela Ferguson, BBC News, Merseyside • George Wright, BBC News
A man has been shot dead on a street in Merseyside, police have said.
The 36-year-old was shot on Quarryside Drive in Kirkby, Knowsley, on Wednesday at about 18:35 BST.
The victim – who has not yet been named – was taken to hospital but pronounced dead a short time later and a murder investigation is under way.
The shooting took place near Liverpool FC’s training ground.
Merseyside Police said forensic examinations are being carried out at the scene, which has been cordoned off.
The force said the man’s family had been informed and would be supported by specialist liaison officers.
Det Supt Mark Drew said: “Our thoughts first and foremost are with his family, who are trying to come to terms with his loss.
“We are still in the very early stages of the investigation as we seek to establish why the incident took place and who was involved.”
Officers are also making house-to-house enquiries and checking CCTV in the area, as they continue to appeal for witnesses.
Patrols have been stepped up to provide reassurance to the community, the force added.
Det Supt Drew called on the public to contact police if they witnessed the attack, and asked people to check their CCTV, dashcam devices or doorbell footage for anything suspicious.
“There is no room for guns on the streets of Merseyside and we will do everything within our power to ensure those responsible are brought to justice,” he said.
“My message to those involved in gun crime and serious organised crime is clear – Merseyside Police will never rest, we are relentless in our pursuit of those involved.”
