The RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit is investigating after a man was shot and killed in Merritt early this morning.

Merritt RCMP say they responded to the 2600-block of Granite Avenue just before 1 a.m. today to reports of a shooting.

When they arrived, they found a local man in his 20’s in medical distress. He was taken to hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

“Merritt RCMP has secured a scene and major crime investigators will be in the Granite Avenue area as it continues its investigation into this incident,” said Staff Sgt. Scott Aschenbrenner, the Unit Commander of the Southeast District Major Crime Unit.

“Although the investigation is in its infancy, this occurrence appears to be targeted in nature, and police do not believe there is any further risk to public safety.”

Police say there is no risk to public safety noting the shooting appears to be targeted.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Southeast District Major Crime Unit information line at 1-877-987-8477.