Man is shot dead in 'feud' attack

It is thought the victim was linked to the LVF

One man has been shot dead and a second injured in a gun attack in north Belfast.

It is understood the shooting happened at Wheatfield Crescent, off the Crumlin Road, at about 1740 BST.

A loyalist source has told the BBC that the shooting is part of the continuing loyalist paramilitary feud.

The BBC has also been told that the victim was linked to the Loyalist Volunteer Force. The police said their investigation was at an early stage.

It is the third murder in a current feud between rival loyalist paramilitaries.

'End violence now'

BBC Ireland correspondent Denis Murray said it was not clear whether the Ulster Volunteer Force or another loyalist group carried out the killing.

DUP assembly member Nelson McCausland said: "This is a real disappointment that we have another fatality.

"Two lives have already been taken, and now a third. This feud is tearing communities apart.

"The general impression in the unionist community is that they want this brought to an end now."

Two streets off Crumlin Road were cordoned off by police as they began their investigation and at least nine Army Land Rovers were also seen heading to the scene.

Police officers were also stationed at Belfast's Mater Hospital.

Chief Superintendent Mike Little, head of the police's North Belfast District Command Unit, described the killing as a senseless attack.

He said: "I am urging those with influence to use that influence to prevent further loss of life."

Nationalist SDLP Assembly member Alban Maginness said: "In the week of the IRA's decision, it is imperative loyalists get their act together and end this violence now."