A former member of the Parachute Regiment has been found not guilty of murder and attempted murder in Londonderry on Bloody Sunday in 1972.
Thirteen people were shot dead and at least 15 others injured on Bloody Sunday in January 1972 at a civil rights demonstration in the Bogside area of Derry.
Soldier F, whose identity is protected by a court order, faced charges of murdering James Wray, 22, and William McKinney, 26, along with five counts of attempted murder.
Judge Patrick Lynch remarked that the Parachute Regiment had fired upon unarmed civilians fleeing in panic. Despite this, he stated the evidence against Soldier F did not meet the threshold required for a conviction.
While delivering his verdict, Judge Lynch criticized the military conduct on that fateful day, expressing that the soldiers involved had lost their sense of discipline. He concluded, Those responsible should hang their heads in shame.
After the ruling, William McKinney's brother, Mickey, emphasized the sense of pride felt by the families and victims’ supporters as they continue to advocate for justice.
Families left the courthouse facing a mixture of emotions, with some expressing pride in the resilience shown throughout the campaign for justice. However, concerns lingered about the broader implications of the verdict. First Minister Michelle O'Neill expressed disappointment, stressing that the families suffered from a continued denial of justice.
Paul Young from the Northern Ireland Veterans' Movement welcomed the verdict, suggesting that veterans who served honorably will find solace in the outcome. In contrast, leaders from various political factions highlighted the complex legacy of the Troubles that this case has brought to light.
The case, representing a solitary prosecution over the Bloody Sunday events, raises critical discussions about accountability and the historical narratives surrounding the conflict in Northern Ireland.
