A man critically injured after being wounded in a gun attack in Co Dublin last night has died.

James Talbot (46), who had a distinguished boxing career when he was younger and studied law in university, was targeted at Abbeywood Court, Lucan, Co Dublin, just before 10.30pm.

He was taken by ambulance to Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown after the attack.

The Garda said a car that may have been involved in the incident was found ablaze a short time afterwards in Earlsforth Estate, Lucan.

The scene of the shooting was sealed off last night and was due to undergo a full forensic examination this morning. The victim is well known in the boxing world and has worked in the fitness industry.

Gardaí said last night’s shooting had all the hallmarks of a gangland attack.

The office of the State Pathologist has been notified.

Gardaí are appealing for anyone who may have may have seen the car moving or being parked to contact gardaí in Lucan on 01 6667300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

The former professional boxer and personal trainer had been arrested in 1997 in possession of £300,000 worth of heroin by gardaí who spent two weeks under cover waiting for the drug to be collected.

Talbot, with an address in Lucan, pleaded guilty at Trim Circuit Court in January 1998 to possession of the drug and possession with intent to supply at Loughsallagh, Clonee, Co Meath, on March 1st, 1997.

He also pleaded guilty to possession of 4kg of cannabis resin and possession of the drug with intent to supply at Foxborough Lane, Lucan, on February 28th, 1997.

Judge Patrick McCartain imposed three years for possession of the heroin and seven for possession with intent to supply and three years for possession of the cannabis with five for possession with intent to supply, with the sentences to run concurrently.