Murder investigation launched following shooting of 16-year-old boy in Liverpool

The motive behind the shooting is yet to be established

Merseyside Police has cordoned off the area where the boy was found (Getty)

A murder investigation has been launched after a 16-year-old boy was fatally shot in Liverpool on Sunday night.

Police were called to the scene at a towpath near Burrows Court, Eldonian Village, which is in the city’s Vauxhall area, after a member of public found the boy.

The teenager was taken to Royal Liverpool University Hospital where he later died. His relatives have been informed.

Merseyside Police said the motive behind the shooting was still unknown at this early stage. The force has cordoned off the area and is carrying out house-to-house inquiries.

In an effort to reassure the public, high visibility patrols have been increased in the area.

Anyone with any information regarding the shooting should call the specialist Matrix team on 0800 230 0600 or the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.