A murder inquiry has commenced in Co Limerick after a body discovered in a shallow grave yesterday was identified as that of a missing man
Gardaí this evening said the remains were those of Lee Slattery (24), who had been missing from the Ballynanty area of Limerick since last week.
A post-mortem examination showed that Mr Slattery died as a result of gunshot wounds.
His body was discovered at about 4pm yesterday when a person out walking noticed an area of disturbed ground off the Knockalisheen Road at the back of Castle Park estate in Moyross approximately a mile outside the city.
Following the discovery, gardaí began a search of the area during which a handgun was uncovered.
A technical team is now examining the weapon to see if it can be linked to Mr Slattery’s death.
A Garda spokesman said detectives were attempting to piece together Mr Slattery’s final movements.
They have appealed to anyone who saw or heard anything on Thursday night or Friday morning in the Ballynanty or Delmege House areas to call Mayorstone Garda station on (061) 456 980 or the Garda Confidential line on 1800 666 111.