Taoiseach Leo Varadkar expressed shock at the fatal shooting at a popular Dublin restaurant on Christmas Eve.
A man in his 20s died after being injured at Browne’s Steakhouse restaurant on Main Street in Blanchardstown just after 8pm on Sunday. Families with children also dine in the restaurant.
A man in his 40s was treated in a serious condition at Connolly Hospital with a gunshot wound.
It is understood that police are investigating whether the deceased was involved in the initial attack and was captured afterwards.
Varadkar said he was shocked to hear about the shooting at “a well-known family restaurant I’ve been to many times.” “The police are conducting a comprehensive investigation. I thank them and express my solidarity with employees and customers.” He said on X.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee also condemned the shooting, saying it was “disgusting” that the violence occurred at a pre-Christmas family gathering. “I am sorry for the violence in Blanchardstown tonight. Such evil has caused unimaginable human suffering this Christmas,” she said on Instagram.
“It is particularly disgusting that anyone can commit such acts of violence when families are gathered together.
“My thoughts are with the families of the deceased, those at the scene and all the emergency services staff working tonight and over Christmas who have to deal with this senseless act of violence.
“I would appeal to anyone with any information to contact An Garda Síochána.”
Police and emergency services were alerted to the incident at around 8pm on Sunday. The scene was retained and the services of the Office of the State Pathologist were requested.
PA Media contributed to this report
