A high ranking Russian diplomat has been found dead from gun shot wounds in Moscow, it was reported early today.

Petr Polshikov, 56, was found at his home in the capital city with a bullet wound to his head.

The shooting disclosed by Ren TV came soon after news broke of the assassination of Russian ambassador to Ankara, Andrey Karlov.

The circumstances of the shooting remained unclear, and it is understood police are examining all possible theories as to his death.

Two empty bullet shells were found in the flat on Balaklavsky Prospekt.

A gun was discovered under the sink in the bathroom.