Northampton murder probe: Man shot dead in Upton street Published duration 5 October 2018

image copyright South Beds News Agency image caption The man was found close to the Upton Mini Market at about 21:00

A murder investigation is under way after a 28-year-old man was shot dead in a "usually very safe" area.

Police received reports of gun shots in Webb Drive in Upton, Northampton, at about 21:00 BST on Thursday.

One resident said they heard five or six shots and saw the man lying in the road. He died at the scene.

Detectives believe the killer was known to the victim and it was not a drive-by incident, but they would not confirm whether any arrests had been made.

image copyright South Beds News Agency image caption A forensic tent is in the centre of the police cordon

Ch Supt Chris Hillery from Northamptonshire Police said: "Upton is usually a very safe place. It is a low crime area and a safe place to live and work.

"We believe neither the victim or the suspects are linked to this location. It just happened in this location.

"We are following several significant lines of inquiry. This is a fast moving investigation," he added.

The incident happened near a mini market and children's play area, and the force said officers were carrying out patrols and conducting inquiries nearby.

image copyright South Beds News Agency image caption Police said they thought the incident was a targeted attack