Police in Edinburgh have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in the city centre.

Emergency services were called to Chester Street at around 8pm on Wednesday April 17, following reports of a shooting in Chester Street.

Officers and other emergency services responded to the area and a man was found lying on a common staircase, having sustained a serious injury.

He passed away at the scene.

READ MORE: Trainspotting 2 star Bradley Welsh shot dead in Edinburgh 

Police have confirmed formal identification has still to take place, however, the victim is believed to be Bradley Welsh, who lived nearby.

Detective Superintendent Allan Burton from the Major Investigation Team said: "At this time our deepest sympathies are with this man's family and a significant inquiry is now underway to trace everyone who was involved in the murder.

"I would ask that anyone who was within Chester Street, or the West End of Edinburgh on Wednesday evening, and who saw anyone, or anything suspicious, to contact the police immediately.

The Herald:

"Part of this investigation will focus on obtaining CCTV from nearby homes and businesses and we would also urge any motorists who were in the area and may have relevant dash-cam footage to share this with us.

"Murders remain extremely rare in the Capital, and such incidents where a firearm are used are even more uncommon. However, we wish to reassure the public that considerable resources are being dedicated to this inquiry and we are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness."

READ MORE: Bradley Welsh shot dead in Edinburgh - everything we know so far 

Chief Inspector David Robertson, Local Area Commander for the City Centre added: "We recognise and understand the profound impact this incident will have had, both on those connected to the victim, and to the local community of the West End.

"There will naturally be a high officer presence in the area over the forthcoming days both to offer reassurance and gather any relevant information that may be of use to the inquiry.

"I want to stress that Edinburgh remains a safe place to live, work and visit and we are doing everything we can to bring those responsible for this needless death to justice.

"In the coming days, weeks and months we will be providing the family with all the support and assistance they may require."

The former boxer, who was known for his role in Trainspotting as well as his community work in the Capital, was found with serious injuries and died at the scene.

The Herald:

He was most famous for his role as Mr Doyle in the 2017 film T2 Trainspotting, and his boxing career that saw the Edinburgh-born star help young adults stay fit and out of trouble.

Author Irvine Welsh, a friend of the former boxer led the tributes to "his beautiful friend" on social media.

The Trainspotting writer said: "Bradley John Welsh, my heart is broken. Goodbye my amazing and beautiful friend. Thanks for making me a better person and helping me to see the world in a kinder and wiser way."