The off-duty PSNI officer who was shot by masked men in Omagh, Co Tyrone, has been named as Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell.
It is understood that Mr Caldwell remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital after being hit several times at a sports complex.
The attack took place at Youth Sport Omagh during a children's football coaching session on February 22, just before 8pm.
READ MORE: Attempted murder probe launched after police officer shot in Tyrone
He was reportedly putting footballs into the boot of his car when he was approached and shot in front of his children.
Officers sealed off Killyclogher Road as emergency services rushed to the scene and the PSNI have now formally launched an attempted murder investigation.
Senior PSNI figures have suggested the dissident republican group the New IRA is the primary focus for detectives.
As news of the attack broke on Wednesday evening, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak issued a statement saying: "I am appalled by the disgraceful shooting of an off-duty police officer in Omagh tonight.
"My thoughts are with the officer and his family. There is no place in our society for those who seek to harm public servants protecting communities."
An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also spoke out against the 'grotesque act' and said: "I have heard the terrible news from Omagh about the shooting of an off-duty PSNI officer tonight.
"Our thoughts are with the injured officer, his family, colleagues and friends at this difficult time.
"I utterly condemn this grotesque act of attempted murder.
"I call on anyone with information about it to share it with the PSNI."
Anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident is asked to contact the PSNI with any information they may have.
PSNI temporary detective chief superintendent Eamonn Corrigan said: "Our investigation is now underway and I would appeal to anyone who was in the area and witnessed what happened or could help with our enquiries to make contact with police on 101."
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