Police investigating recent Halifax-area shooting as homicide

The RCMPare appealing to the public for information on a fatal shootingin the Halifax-area community of North Preston.

Police say they were called to Downey Road around 4:23 p.m. last Thursday after reports of a shooting.

Officers found 18-year-oldDieago Downey on the ground with a gunshot wound. He was taken to hospital, but died on Monday.

The medical examiner's office has ruled the death a homicide and the Mounties are appealing to the public for information.

"We're talking about the life of a young man lost to a senseless act of violence," saidSgt. Jason Withrow in a news release.

"If you know what happened, or have video of the area around the time of the shooting, please contactinvestigators. Your willingness to speak up could make a difference in identifying those responsible for Mr. Downey's death."

The release said investigators also wantto speak with anyone who may have knowledge of Downey's movements prior to the 911 call last Thursday.

Police have saidthey do not believe the incident was random.