RCMP investigating Merritt shooting as a homicide

The RCMP is investigating a homicide after a Merritt man was allegedly shot last night in the city and later died in the hospital.

On Oct. 15, shortly before 1 a.m., Merritt RCMP responded to a report of a shooting in the 2600 block of Granite Avenue. Police officers responded to the area where they found a man in medical distress, according to an RCMP press release.

The victim, a Merritt man in his 20s, was transported to hospital by B.C. Emergency Health Services where he later died.

"Merritt RCMP have secured a scene and major crime investigators will be in the Granite Avenue area as it continues its investigation into this incident," RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit Commander Staff Sgt. Scott Aschenbrenner said in the release.  "Although the investigation is in its infancy, this occurrence appears to be targeted in nature, and police do not believe there is any further risk to public safety."

Anyone with any additional information is asked to contact the Southeast District Major Crime Unit information line at 1-877-987-8477.

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