A teenager who suffered a serious leg injury in a shooting incident in Limerick city is well known to gardaí and has over 30 previous convictions.
The 17-year-old, whose cousin is serving a life sentence for murder, was with two other males when he was shot in the leg.
The shooting took place as the three youths stood in a green area in the Janesboro area of the city shortly after 10am on Thursday morning.
The victim managed to make his way as far as Lower Carey’s Road where he collapsed on a footpath. Paramedics were called and treated him at the scene before he was taken to University Hospital.
His injuries are not life threatening, but sources expressed serious concerns for his leg given the extent of his injuries.
Due to turn 18, in August the victim is from the Garryowen area of Limerick city. He has previous convictions for a variety of offences including theft, public order and road traffic matters.
He was released from detention in recent months after serving a sentence for robbery and theft.
It is understood the gunman fled the scene with the shot gun in the opposite direction to the injured teenager.
Gardaí at Roxboro are investigating and detectives are examining CCTV footage of the area while house to house inquiries are also underway.
Any witnesses are urged to contact Roxboro Garda Station on 061 214340.