Police were called to a property in Maguiresbridge, Co Fermanagh, where two people were pronounced dead at the scene. A third person has since died in hospital. It has been confirmed two children and an adult were killed. An adult male has been taken to hospital, where he remains in a serious condition. All four had sustained gunshot wounds.

It has been confirmed all four individuals are from the same household.

“At a time like this, words can seem meaningless,” said Councillor Roofe.

“But my thoughts and sympathies, like those of everyone in the county and beyond, are with the victims of this tragedy. The entire local community is devastated and struggling to come to terms with this incident.

“The death of children is always hard to comprehend but particularly when it comes in such a violent way.

"In the midst of this distressing news, police need space to investigate the situation and I urge people to give them that, as well as any information they may have relating to this horrific tragedy.”