Launceston Detectives are investigating the deliberate shooting of a 40 year old Mayfield man in the early hours of Saturday morning.  The incident is believed to have occurred shortly after midnight.

The man was allegedly assaulted by a number of people at the intersection of Hargrave Crescent and Lawson Street, Mayfield before he was deliberately shot in the back at close range with a small calibre rifle.

He was treated by Ambulance Tasmania personnel at the scene before being taken to the Launceston General Hospital where he is being treated for non-life threatening injuries.  He is expected to make a full recovery.

It is believed that all parties are known to each other and that they were feuding over an undisclosed matter.  The victim of the shooting has so far declined to fully cooperate with police and has not provided a formal complaint.

Tasmania Police wish to reassure the public that this is an isolated incident and that there is no increased risk to public safety.

Any person with any information relating to this incident is urged to contact the Launceston Criminal Investigation Branch on 6777 3915, Tasmania Police on 131 444, or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.