Irish man in hospital after being shot in France

Local news outlet Ouest-France reported that the man was struck by stray bullets. Picture: AP Photo/Jean-Francois Badias, File

An Irish man in his 50s has been hospitalized following a shooting in Rennes, France

The incident occurred shortly after 7.30pm on Saturday in the Villejean area of the city, according to local media reports, where the man was shot multiple times, including in the chest. 

Local news outlet Ouest-France reported that the man was struck by stray bullets and described him as a “collateral victim.” 

Residents in the area told Ouest-France that the Irish man appeared to be “in the wrong place at the wrong time.” 

The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed awareness of the incident and stated it is “ready to provide consular assistance.” 

It is understood that the man resides locally.

A second individual, a man in his 40s, was also injured in the shooting, sustaining a gunshot wound to his leg.