Two individuals have tragically lost their lives, and two others are in critical condition following a shooting incident in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
Authorities have sealed off the area in the village of Maguiresbridge, located approximately 75 miles (120km) southwest of Belfast.
«We can confirm that there is no immediate danger to the public,» stated a spokesperson from the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
No motive for the shooting has been disclosed at this time.
Emergency services responded to the shooting in the Drummeer Road vicinity of the village at 8:21 am on Wednesday, as reported by a spokesperson from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.
It was confirmed that two individuals sustained injuries.
«After initial assessment and treatment on-site, one patient was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, while another was transported to the South West Acute Hospital by ambulance,» added the spokesperson.
Due to the closure of Drummeer Road, authorities have cautioned about potential delays on alternative routes.
Sinn Fein MP Pat Cullen conveyed her profound shock regarding the incident, expressing, «My foremost thoughts are with the victims and their families during this tragic period.
«I am in communication with the authorities regarding this ongoing situation. The police are currently present at the scene outside Maguiresbridge, and road closures are in effect as investigations are conducted.»
The MP for Fermanagh and South Tyrone urged the public «to refrain from speculating on the specifics of this tragic and distressing event.»
Drummeer Road has been cordoned off. Pic: Oliver McVeigh /PA Wir
DUP MLA Deborah Erskine, representing the area in the Northern Ireland Assembly, described the community as «shocked» by the occurrence in «a rural, quiet setting.»
«The entire community is deeply impacted by this morning’s events,» she remarked.
Read more from Sky News:
Jailed traders’ convictions overturned
Family tribute after death of teenager
Ulster Unionist MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, Diana Armstrong, labeled the shooting as «heartbreaking and distressing.»
«The reported loss of life and severe injuries have deeply unsettled the local community,» she stated in a release on X.
«My sympathies are with the affected families and the community as they grapple with this tragedy.»