Lyra McKee murder trial delayed
Unresolved legal arguments hinder hearing
The opening of the trial of three men over the murder of journalist Lyra McKee has been delayed following legal arguments at the outset of today’s hearing.
The NUJ member died after being struck by a bullet during rioting in the Creggan area of Derry on April 18 2019.
Peter Cavanagh (35), of Mary Street, Derry; Jordan Gareth Devine (23), of Bishop Street, Derry; and Paul McIntyre (56) of Kells Walk, Derry, have all been charged with murder.
The three also face a number of other charges including possession of a firearm and ammunition with intent, possession of and throwing of a petrol bomb.
Lyra’s family, including her sister Nichola McKee Corner and her partner Sara Canning, were present in the public gallery for the hearing.
During the brief hearing, the lead prosecutor outlined a number of unresolved legal arguments which have delayed the case.
Judge Smyth adjourned the hearing until Tuesday morning.
There are fears that the opening of the case may be further delayed.
Séamus Dooley, Assistant General Secretary, NUJ said the thoughts of everyone in the union were with Sara and the McKee family.
“It has taken a long time to reach this stage and it is heartbreaking to imagine how Lyra’s partner, family and friends must feel. All we can do is offer solidarity and hope that the procedural and legal issues are resolved in a timely fashion.”
Seven men are facing trial on a number of charges including rioting and throwing a petrol bomb.
They are Joseph Patrick Barr (36) of Sandringham Drive, Derry; Jude Forest Coffey (26), of Gartan Square, Derry; William Patrick Elliott (57) of Ballymagowan Gardens, Derry; Joseph Anthony Campbell (23) of Gosheden Cottages, Derry; Patrick Anthony Gallagher (32) of John Field Place, Derry; Christopher Joseph Gillen (43) of Balbane Pass, Derry; and Kieran George McCool (55).