POLICE have launched a murder investigation after a man was shot dead during a suspected aggravated burglary in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The victim, who was 61, was at his home in cul-de-sac Castlewood, near St Ives, near Ringwood, when at least two intruders broke in.

He suffered a gunshot wound and police and paramedics were called to the address.

However, he died as a result of his injuries. No arrests have been made.

Police have refused to confirm if the murder weapon has been found.

However, ballistics experts are working to ascertain the type of gun used.

A second person was inside the property at the time of the shooting.

Detectives investigating the murder say the second person is “deeply traumatised” and is being supported by specially-trained officers.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Connolly of Dorset Police said: “Police were called to reports that intruders had entered a residential premises in a location called Castlewood.

“Upon arrival, officers discovered a 61-year-old man had been shot.

“He was taken to hospital, but tragically, he died.

“Subsequently, police launched a murder investigation, which is in the early stages.”

Detectives from the force’s Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) are leading the investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Derbyshire, of MCIT, said next of kin are aware and the coroner has been notified.

“At this stage we are still trying to establish exactly what happened at the address in Castlewood and how and why this man was shot dead,” she said.

“I am appealing for anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in the area or was in the area at that time, to contact Dorset Police as soon as possible.

“There will be a heavy police presence in the vicinity and officers from the local Neighbourhood Policing Team will be carrying out high visibility patrols to offer reassurance to the community and can be contacted with any concerns.”

On Sunday, David’s Lane, which leads into Castlewood, was cordoned off while officers investigated the scene of the crime.

Residents reported hearing the police helicopter overhead in the morning.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 30:53.