Irish boxer Katie Taylor’s father injured in shooting

Pete Taylor coached his daughter Katie to Olympic gold. Credit: PA

The father of Olympic boxing gold medallist Katie Taylor has been injured during a shooting incident near Dublin.

Pete Taylor was at Bray Boxing Club in Co Wicklow training fighters shortly before 7am on Tuesday when the attack happened.

A 50-year-old man has been killed and a third man was injured, Gardaí confirmed.

The club was where Taylor – Ireland’s Olympic, European and World champion – began her career. She went on to win gold at London 2012.

The gym was established by Mr Taylor.

The chairman of Bray Municipal Council, Chris Fox, said Katie Taylor’s father Pete was one of those shot.

Fellow councillor Michael O’Connor added: “Pete Taylor was shot.”

Gardaí said the body of the man remains at the scene pending the arrival of the State Pathologist.

The other two men, aged 35 and 57, who were injured in the incident, have been taken to hospital.

Gardaí said a suspect fled the scene in a silver-coloured Volkswagen Caddy van with Northern Irish plates.

An examination of the shooting scene is being carried out by specialist officers. Credit: PA

They are appealing for anyone with any information to contact them.

A technical examination of the area is being carried out by specialist officers.

It is located at the harbour in Bray town.

There was a heavy garda presence at the scene on Tuesday as officers investigated the shooting.

Local Sinn Féin TD John Brady tweeted: “Absolutely shocking news coming from Bray Boxing club this morning. Another dark day for Bray.”

Irish health minister Simon Harris, who represents the constituency of Wicklow, tweeted: “Shocking news in Bray this morning. I have no doubt that the gardai are doing all they can to apprehend those responsible.”