By David Hunter
A wild stag has been shot dead by police in Northern Ireland in the early hours of the morning.
The animal was running along the Gilnahirk Road in east Belfast and narrowly missed a number of motorists.
A PSNI spokesperson said police tried to contain the animal but it wasn't possible due to it's agjitated state.
Inspector Eastwood said: “As the stag was in an extremely agitated and dangerous state, running wild in a densely populated area and posed a danger to motorists police shot the animal dead."
Police stressed that, as it's rutting season, Stags are extremely aggressive and dangerous.
The spokesperson continued "It posed a real threat to members of the public."
Officials insist the animal was humanely shot and died instantly.
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