PSNI shoot stag that 'posed a risk to the public' in centre of Newry

A stag on the loose in Newry has been shot dead by PSNI marksmen.

It was in the St Patrick's Avenue area of the city since before 8am this morning.

Officers said several attempts were made to safely and humanely manage the animal before it was shot in a garden.

A PSNI spokesman added: "Regrettably, officers were required to shoot the stag as it had become very agitated and posed a risk to the public.

"Officers had liaised with a vet and qualified deer stalkers were in attendance at the scene."

Newry Stag Shot Dead https://t.co/HeJxAe13wL pic.twitter.com/5VOopEOPnr

— Newry.ie (@Newryie) October 13, 2016

The PSNI Ombudsman has been notified.

David Wilson, spokesman for the USPCA, said the stag had been in a densely populated area of the city.