Full Breakdown
Three Derry Men Acquitted in Lyra McKee Murder Trial
7/3/2026, 10:51:57 PM
Acquittal of Three Derry Men
On 3 July 2026, Belfast Crown Court found Peter Cavanagh (38, Mary Street), Jordan Gareth Devine (25, Bishop Street) and Paul McIntyre (58, Kells Walk) not guilty of murder in the 2019 shooting of journalist Lyra McKee. Judge Mrs Justice Smyth ruled the prosecution had not proved beyond reasonable doubt that the three assisted the gunman, though other charges remain pending.
Background to the 2019 Shooting
Lyra McKee was shot on 18 April 2019 while standing near police vehicles amid riots in Derry’s Creggan district in Northern Ireland. The dissident New IRA claimed responsibility, saying a member fired the fatal round at “enemy forces”. Four shots were fired; one struck McKee.
Trial Timeline
The non-jury bench trial opened in May 2024, proceeded without a jury, and concluded in April 2024/2025 (sources differ on the exact month). Nine men faced 52 charges, including rioting; the three defendants declined to give evidence. The judge spent over four hours delivering the verdict.
Key Numbers
150 witnesses reported the incident but none provided evidence leading to prosecution. Four shots were fired, one killing McKee. Nine defendants faced 52 charges; all were acquitted of murder after a trial lasting roughly two years.
Official Statements & Responses
The Public Prosecution Service said it was satisfied that the legal test for prosecution was met and that the case was in the public interest. Judge Smyth described the killing as an act of senseless violence and noted the gunman has never been brought to court. The New IRA reiterated its claim that a member fired the fatal shot. Reporters Without Borders called for continued pursuit of accountability.
Criticism & Opposition
Defence counsel argued the case relied on speculation and circumstantial evidence, noting that MTV footage left the scene before the shooting. Lyra’s sister Nichola Corner called the verdict a “complete and utter shock” and urged an end to the “culture of silence” that she says shields perpetrators.
Verbatim Quotes
- “system has completely failed Lyra, our family and Northern Ireland” — Nichola Corner, sister
- “Lyra McKee’s murder was an act of senseless violence,” — Judge Mrs Justice Smyth
- “This is not over, Lyra said if you're going to go down - go down fighting.” — Lyra McKee (quoted by family)
- “The authorities must continue to pursue all legal avenues to establish accountability and ensure that those responsible for Lyra’s death are brought to justice. Journalists cannot work freely and safely if those who kill members of the press can do so with impunity.” — Reporters Without Borders
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on whether the trial concluded in April 2024 or April 2025, creating uncertainty about the exact timeline. The gunman’s identity remains unknown and no forensic evidence links any of the acquitted men to the fatal shot.
What’s Next
Reporters Without Borders and Lyra’s family say they will keep pressure on law-enforcement to locate and charge the unknown shooter. The PPS indicated that remaining charges against the three men will be addressed in separate proceedings.
