Witnesses To Lyra McKee Murder Offered Anonymity

Police have offered anonymity to those who come forward as witnesses to Lyra McKee's murder in the hopes of securing justice for the north Belfast woman.

The 29-year-old journalist was fatally injured when a gunman opened fire during a night of dissident republican rioting in Creggan, L'Derry on Thursday 18 April.

She had been standing in the vicinity of a PSNI Land Rover when she was hit by the shots. The New IRA have accepted responsibility for the death.

Police have now confirmed, following liaison with the Public Prosecution Service, that witnesses of the murder and the activities of the gunman will be granted anonymity and referred to as 'Witness A', 'Witness B' etc.

The identity of any individuals will only be disclosed to the PPS and in the case of giving evidence in court, the maximum protection will be offered, including giving evidence via video link from behind a screen and with voice distortion.

Releasing footage of the gunman last week, Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy, who is leading the investigation, said there was approximately 100 people on the ground during the riots, indicating that the information about Lyra's killer lies within the local community.

"People saw the gunman and his associates," he said. "I think people within the community know who they are. I'm asking them to come forward and help us."

Appealing to the public, a PSNI spokesperson said yesterday: "We need evidence about the gunman and his associates. Not rumour. Not speculation. Not gossip. We need first hand evidence or camera footage to identify and bring the gunman and others who were involved in Lyra's murder to justice.

"We stand right alongside you as part of the community. Together we have an opportunity to bring a meaningful and lasting change.

"Please pick up the phone and share what information you have. The investigation team is happy to meet with you directly or you can pass information to the team by phoning 101."

Details, mobile phone footage and images can also be uploaded to the Major Incident Public Portal, accessible here.



(JG/CM)