A male garda has been shot dead in Co Roscommon.
A man has been arrested following the shooting in Castlerea last night.
It’s understood this garda was on duty last night when he came across something on the main street in Castlerea in Roscommon – close to the garda station.
As he was in the course of dealing with this situation – it developed into some sort of physical altercation and he was shot and critically injured with his own weapon.
He was treated by emergency services and gardai have now confirmed that he has passed away.
In a statement they say - it’s with deepest sadness that An Garda Siochana confirms the death of our colleague.
The area on the main street has been sealed off in Castlerea and technical officers are on site examining the scene.
A man has been arrested and has been taken to Castlerea Garda Station for questioning.
It’s understood the garda was aged in his late 40s and attached to the detective unit.
Gardai say they will confirm his identity once his family have been informed.
Meanwhile, the Justice Minister has expressed his shock and sadness at the shooting.
Charlie Flanagan says he wants to express his sympathy to the 'parents and family of the brave Garda who died doing his duty serving his community and to the wider family of An Garda Siochana'.
Local Roscommon Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan says the community is in shock this morning:
