POLICE have shot dead a stag which was running loose in Newry this morning as it "posed a risk to the public".
Members of the public had been warned not to approach the animal which had been spotted in St Patrick's Avenue and to avoid the steps between St Patrick’s Avenue and Water Street.
The PSNI said specially trained firearms officers "were tasked to assist" and 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."
The police ombudsman has been informed.
