Gunman stabbed multiple times and died Emergency services were called to the scene after 8pmTwo suspects fled in a white Audi carGarda probe whether attack is linked to Corduff feud Taoiseach ‘shocked’ at attack at restaurant he has ‘visited many times’
It is understood that a high velocity weapon was used in the shooting which led to terrified customers, including children and women fleeing the premises.
The shooting took place around 8.10pm in a restaurant on the Main Street in Blanchardstown.
The men were taken to James Connolly Memorial Hospital to receive medical treatment.
One man, aged in his 20s, was pronounced deceased in hospital a short time afterwards. A post mortem will take place tomorrow.
The other man, who is in his 40s, is continuing to receive treatment for gunshot wounds. He remains in a serious condition.
It is believed that the suspected gunman was overpowered at the scene and suffered fatal injuries.
The Irish Independent understands the gunman was stabbed multiple times.
It is also believed that the target was a local man, aged in his 40s, and suffered a gunshot wound to the neck.
The men are not believed to be related.
Video footage of the aftermath of the shooting has been shared on social media, but gardai have pleaded with the public to stop sharing them.
“An Garda Síochána is aware of videos of the incident and immediate aftermath which are in circulation on social media and messaging apps. We are appealing to the public for these videos not to be further distributed,” a spokesperson said.
“We are also appealing to the public to be aware of a significant level of speculation, misinformation and disinformation which is in circulation.
“Gardaí have increased uniform patrols in the Dublin Region, with support from armed patrols, including the Garda Armed Support Unit.”
One line being investigated is that the shooting is linked to the bitter Corduff feud that has seen numerous violent incidents.
Two suspects in the case fled the scene in a white Audi car.
Members of the Garda Technical Bureau Photo: Mark Condren
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he was “shocked” to hear about the shooting at “a well known family restaurant I’ve visited many times”.
“Full Garda investigation under way. My thanks to them and solidarity to staff and customers,” he said on X.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee said that the attack taking place where families had gathered was “disgusting”.
“I deplore the violence in Blanchardstown tonight.
“This viciousness has resulted in unimaginable human suffering this Christmas,” she said on Instagram.
“That anyone could perpetrate such violence as families gathered together is especially disgusting.
“I’m thinking of the bereaved, those who were at the scene and indeed all the emergency service personnel working tonight and over Christmas who have to deal with this senseless violence.
“I call on anyone with information of any kind to contact An Garda Siochana.”
Gardai and emergency services were alerted to the incident at around 8pm on Sunday evening.
The scene was preserved pending a technical examination and the services of the Office of the State Pathologist were requested.
In a statement, An Garda Síochána said: “The scene has been preserved for a technical examination and the services of the Office of the State Pathologist have been requested.”
Investigations are ongoing.