A well-known Dublin criminal Martin Foley - nicknamed 'the Viper' - has been shot a number of times after leaving a gym in Kimmage south Dublin this afternoon.
Foley was hit by up to four shots by a gunman as he drove out of the Carlisle gym on Kimmage Road Lower just after 3pm.
It is understood that Foley spotted the gunman and tried to drive away before crashing after a short distance. He then tried to escape on foot. He has been taken to St James' Hospital where his condition is described as "critical".
It is understood he has been hit a number of times in the upper and lower body.
It is the latest in a series of murder attempts on Foley who has survived at least four previous attempts on his life. No one has been arrested following the shooting and no one else was injured.
It is believed the attack is linked to an ongoing feud between rival gangs in Dublin. Foley has a ciminal record stretching back over forty years.
Gardai at Crumlin Garda Station are asking anyone with information in the area to contact them at (01) 666 62 00.