A father-of-two killed at Liverpool’s Meat Market was shot by a lurking gunman, police have claimed.
Tommy Baker was shot down at his car after leaving the Phoenix Gym at the complex in Old Swan at around 8.10am this morning.
The 44-year-old from Everton suffered wounds to his head and chest in the attack and was taken to hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
Detectives believe that the killer was in a small grey car that was parked next to Mr Baker’s black BMW in the gym’s car park on Prescot Road prior to the incident.
The grey car subsequently left the car park and turned right onto Prescot Roard, driving in the direction of Liverpool city centre.
Although the motive of the attack remains unclear, Merseyside Police believe it was a targeted attack.
An investigation is underway and CCTV and forensic opportunities are being explored. High visibility patrols have also been stepped up in the area.
Detective Supt Mark Guinness said: “Mr Baker arrived at the gym at just before 7am.
“But we believe the grey vehicle was already there and the occupant waited for him to leave at just after 8am before the attack took place.
“We believe it would have been quite busy at the time with people coming and going from the gym and also people going to the nearby Meat Market.
“I would appeal to anyone who was in the vicinity who may have seen the car, or anyone acting suspiciously, to contact us. Any bit of information could be vital to our investigation.
“I would like to take this opportunity to reassure people that incidents like this are very rare. At this stage we believe the attack was targeted.
“Work is ongoing to establish the motive and we are keeping an open mind at present.
“But the person who carried out this callous attack, needs to be caught. It is difficult to comprehend the mentality of someone who can do this to another person.
“I also want to reiterate my message to those involved in gun crime is clear – Merseyside Police is steadfast in its commitment to tackling gun crime and we will never rest on our laurels.
“We are relentless in our pursuit of those involved in gun and serious organised crime.
“Merseyside Police pro-actively investigates the use of firearms incidents on Merseyside and is relentless in its pursuit of gun crime offenders.
“But we can’t do this alone. Communities need to take a stand and help us to make the streets safer.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Merseyside Police on 0151 777 8663 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.