Coimbatore : A notorious rowdy was shot dead in an encounter in Salem Thursday.

Police, who were in search of history sheeter Kathirvel for the last few years, on a tip off rushed to Kariampatti in Salem to nab him.

As police raided the place, Kathirvel attempted to attack them, following which police opened fire at him.

Seriously wounded Kathirvel was taken to the Government Hospital where he was declared brought dead, police said.

A few police personnel were reportedly injured in the attack by the rowdy, they said.

Kathirvel had escaped from police which had arrested more than 30 rowdies in and around Salem, a few years ago.