Lyra McKee’s family says justice system ‘completely failed’ as men found not guilty of murder

Lyra McKee, a 29-year-old journalist from Belfast, was fatally shot on April 18, 2019, while covering unrest in the Creggan area of Derry. The incident occurred amid rioting where several petrol bombs were hurled at police, and a car was set on fire. During the chaos, four shots were fired toward officers, and McKee was struck by a bullet. The New IRA later claimed responsibility for her death. McKee had moved to Derry to live with her partner, Sara Canning, and was known for her work as a journalist, often covering sensitive political issues in Northern Ireland.

The trial of three men—Jordan Devine (25), Paul McIntyre (58), and Peter Cavanagh (38)—accused of involvement in McKee’s murder took place in a non-jury format at Belfast Crown Court. The proceedings, which began in May 2024, lasted several months and involved extensive evidence collection and testimonies. On July 3, 2026, the judge, Ms Justice Smyth, delivered the verdict, finding all three men not guilty of the murder. The prosecution had argued that the men had accompanied a lone gunman and either encouraged or assisted him in carrying out the attack. However, the defense challenged the strength of the evidence, emphasizing its largely circumstantial nature.

McKee’s family and supporters expressed deep disappointment with the outcome. Her sister, Nichola Corner, spoke outside the courthouse, describing the verdict as "heartbreaking" and a "complete and utter shock." She noted that the judge had previously indicated that the defendants had cases to answer and were likely the individuals identified in connection with the incident. Despite this, the evidence presented did not meet the threshold required for conviction. Corner criticized the justice system for failing both her family and Lyra, calling for an end to the "culture of silence" in Northern Ireland. She emphasized that over 150 witnesses were present on the day of the shooting, yet none came forward with evidence that could have supported the prosecution’s case.

The judge acknowledged the gravity of the situation, referring to McKee’s murder as "an act of senseless violence." She noted that the gunman had never been brought to court, and the evidence against those accused of aiding or encouraging the act fell short of the necessary standards for conviction. In her closing remarks, she extended her condolences to McKee’s family and friends, acknowledging their enduring struggle throughout the prolonged trial.

The press freedom organization Reporters Without Borders issued a statement urging authorities to continue pursuing all legal avenues to hold those responsible for McKee’s death accountable. They stressed that journalists must be able to work without fear of retaliation or impunity. The incident had sparked widespread condemnation and grief, leading to calls for renewed efforts to restore the suspended power-sharing institutions at Stormont. Prominent figures such as Michael D Higgins, Leo Varadkar, and Theresa May attended McKee’s funeral, underscoring the national significance of her death.

The trial also examined evidence against six additional men accused of offenses related to the rioting that occurred on the night of McKee’s death. These charges were part of a broader investigation into the events surrounding the journalist’s killing. The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) expressed solidarity with McKee’s family, highlighting her significant contributions to journalism and mourning her loss. Assistant general secretary Séamus Dooley praised McKee’s dedication and impact, stating that her legacy would continue to inspire others in the field.

As the trial concludes, questions remain about the future of the investigation into McKee’s murder. While the three men have been acquitted, the absence of a convicted perpetrator leaves many unresolved issues. The family continues to seek justice, determined to honor Lyra’s memory and push for systemic changes to prevent similar tragedies. The case remains a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by journalists working in politically volatile environments and the ongoing need for transparency and accountability within the justice system.