Three Men Acquitted of Murdering Journalist Lyra McKee

Three men from Derry have been found not guilty of murdering journalist Lyra McKee in 2019. McKee, 29, from Belfast, died after being struck by a bullet while observing rioting in the Creggan area of Derry on April 18, 2019. The New IRA claimed responsibility for the killing.

The verdict was delivered by a judge in Belfast Crown Court. The prosecution had alleged that the three defendants, whose names have not been released due to reporting restrictions, were involved in the events that led to McKee's death. The defense argued that there was insufficient evidence to prove their involvement in the murder.

Lyra McKee was a prominent journalist and activist known for her work covering the Troubles in Northern Ireland and her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Her death sparked widespread condemnation and calls for an end to violence. The investigation into her murder involved extensive inquiries and the examination of numerous pieces of evidence.

The acquittal of the three men marks a significant development in the case, which has been closely watched in Northern Ireland and beyond. The New IRA, a dissident republican group, had previously issued a statement admitting responsibility for the shooting, stating it was carried out by "volunteer[s]" during a "successful operation" against police. However, the group has not been charged in relation to the murder.