An Irish chef was shot dead outside his restaurant in Kansas City.

44-year-old Shaun Brady was shot dead in the early hours of this morning (local time) in the parking lot outside his restaurant Brady & Fox in the city.

According to police, Mr Brady was trying to stop a group of people from breaking into a car when he was shot.

The man from Tipperary was well known in the Irish community in Kansas and had often appeared on television as a chef.

He was also one of the organizers of the city’s Irish Fest, which is scheduled to take place next weekend.

The 44-year-old chef Shaun Brady. Image: Facebook

In a statement, Kansas City police said Mr Brady was found with gunshot wounds in a parking lot next to his restaurant.

After officers attempted life-saving measures, he was taken to hospital, but was later pronounced dead.

They said they currently believe he was taking out the trash when he saw “several people next to a vehicle.”

“There was an interaction between the victim and the perpetrators that resulted in the victim being shot,” they said.

The 44-year-old chef Shaun Brady. Image: Facebook

The crime scene is currently being examined by forensic investigators and detectives are questioning several witnesses.

They also review surveillance footage.

A Facebook post said Mr Brady’s restaurant was “broken”.

“There are no words to express our sadness, anger and frustration,” they said.

“Our community is with Shaun’s family – forever. We appreciate the outpouring of support, offers of help and your love.

“Together we are united. Together we will mourn. Together we will heal.”

Police are investigating the death as a homicide.