Gun recovered as gardaí investigate double murder

Gardaí have cordoned off the area where the shooting took place

Gardaí investigating the deaths of two people, including a mother-of-six, in a gun attack in Ballymun in Dublin have recovered a firearm.

The woman, who was in her 40s, and a man in his 30s died after the gun attack at a house in Balbutcher Drive yesterday.

Two other people are being treated for less serious injuries at the Mater Hospital.

A major investigation is under way, with gardaí seeking two gunmen.

It is understood that the shooting is gang related, however it is not connected to an ongoing feud between the Hutch and Kinahan criminal gangs.

Woman shot dead in double murder had six children https://t.co/yv4hQ2CcUP pic.twitter.com/L0LXdT3Ng1

— RTÉ News (@rtenews) August 16, 2017

In a press conference at Ballymun Garda Station, where an incident room has been set up, it was confirmed that a gun has been found and is being forensically examined.

Gardaí are also examining two vehicles found in the area, one partially burnt-out.

Those vehicles are a silver Opel Zafira, registration 08-LS-3101, and a Golf GTI, registration 06-LH-3466.

Chief Superintendent Lorraine Wheatley said they are appealing to local people and any delivery drivers or taxi drivers that were in the area of Balbutcher Drive prior to or following the attack to make contact with them at Ballymun Garda Station on 01-6664400 or via the confidential line 1800-666111.

Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan has condemned the shooting.

In a statement, he said: "This callous, cold-blooded violence has no place in our communities - the Government and gardaí stand with the people of Ballymun against such despicable acts and will continue to ensure there is high visibility policing to combat such attacks, including extensive armed checkpoints across the city, for as long as necessary."