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A police armed response team shot an on-the-run stag dead this morning.

The animal was gunned down in Newry to protect the public, the PSNI said.

A police spokesman said: "Following a report of a stag running loose in the St Patrick’s Avenue area of Newry this morning specially trained firearms officers were tasked to assist.

"Several attempts were made to safely and humanely manage the animal.

"Regrettably officers were required to shoot the stag as it had become very agitated and posed a risk to the public. Officers had liaised with a vet and qualified deer stalkers were in attendance at the scene.



"As is normal procedure the office of the Police Ombudsman has been informed of the incident."

Earlier, police warned people to avoid part of the city where the animal had been spotted.

And members of the public were urged not to approach the stag.