Clothing and Physical Features Link Three Men to Lyra McKee Murder Scene
Three men accused of the murder of Belfast journalist Lyra McKee have been linked to the scene by their clothing and physical features, a court has heard. The 29-year-old journalist died after being struck by a bullet while observing rioting in the Creggan area of Londonderry on April 18, 2019. The New IRA claimed responsibility for her death.
Defendants and Charges
Peter Cavanagh, 37, of Mary Street, Jordan Gareth Devine, 25, of Bishop Street, and Paul McIntyre, 58, of Kells Walk, all from Derry, have been charged with her murder. They are also facing additional charges connected to the shooting and the rioting that occurred that night.
Six other Derry men are on trial for charges including rioting and throwing petrol bombs. These defendants are:
- Joseph Patrick Barr, 37, of Sandringham Drive
- Jude Forest Coffey, 28, of Gartan Square
- Joseph Anthony Campbell, 25, of Gosheden Cottages
- Patrick Anthony Gallagher, 33, of John Field Place
- Christopher Joseph Gillen, 45, of Balbane Pass
- Kieran George McCool, 57, of Ballymagowan Gardens
Another man accused of rioting and throwing petrol bombs on the night of the murder died during trial proceedings last year.
Forensic Evidence Presented in Court
During the prosecution's summing up at Belfast Crown Court, prosecuting barrister David McDowell KC detailed the forensic evidence. Forensic image analyst Andrew Wooller identified 19 individuals by their height, build, clothing, and trainers who appeared to be involved in the disorder.
McDowell stated that Cavanagh, Devine, and McIntyre, along with Campbell and Gillen, can be linked to the scene on April 18 through an analysis of imagery gathered, which includes footage filmed by an MTV crew on the day of the shooting.
He also contended that those involved in rioting in the area on April 16 and 18 displayed forensic awareness by burning clothing. McDowell noted that a number of missing items of clothing associated with defendants were not discovered during searches and have not been produced since, suggesting they had been deliberately disposed of.
He described this as an important strand in this case, highlighting the significance of the evidence in connecting the accused to the events.
Court Proceedings and Observers
The defendants filled the dock at Belfast Crown Court on Wednesday morning as the prosecution presented its case. Ms. McKee's sister, Nichola, was among those in the public gallery watching the proceedings.
The trial continues, with further evidence expected to be examined in the coming days.
