The victim of a "horrific shooting" in a quiet Hampshire village has been named locally as a "kind-hearted" artist and children's author.
James Nash, who is also a parish councillor, is currently fighting for life in hospital after suffering serious head injuries during the daytime attack at his home in Upper Enham, near Andover, on Wednesday afternoon.
A 40-year-old woman was also assaulted and suffered minor injuries during the attack, which took place at about 3pm.
The suspected gunman died in a police chase while attempting to flee from the scene on a motorcycle.
Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, sought to reassure residents of the area, telling them police are “confident” the deceased rider, 34, is the attacker involved in the “horrific shooting”.
Mr North also described Mr Nash as a “hands-on” councillor who had “recently been involved in erecting speed indicator devices”.
“I know James well and have worked with him on a number of projects… I’m still utterly shocked at this terrible incident," he said in a statement on Friday.
“James is such a kind-hearted individual who cares deeply for his community.
“He is also a talented children’s author and illustrator and I was extremely touched last year when one of the dedications in his latest book was to my newborn daughter, Eleanor-Ivy.
“My thoughts remain with James, his family and the people of Enham Alamein. I hope and pray that he makes a recovery. We’re all with you, James.”
Detectives investigating the incident meanwhile said they do not believe there are "any outstanding suspects” despite the probe being at an early stage.
The suspect, who is believed to have initially fled the scene on foot before trying to get away on a motorbike, fatally crashed on an A-road around three miles away from the shooting site after officers gave chase.
He died at the scene and his next-of-kin have been notified as formal identification takes place, Hampshire Police said.
The force also revealed officers had attended an address in Enham Alamein, near Mr Nash's home, as part of their investigation.