06/07/2026
PPS Acknowledges Acquittal Of Three Defendants Over Lyra McKee Murder
The Public Prosecution Service (PPS) says its decision to bring the case met the required legal test and was in the public interest, after three defendants were acquitted over the 2019 murder of journalist Lyra McKee.
The PPS confirmed on 3 July 2026 that it acknowledged the acquittal of the three defendants, which related to the fatal shooting of Ms McKee in April 2019.
Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Michael Agnew said: "Lyra McKee's life was taken in a reckless act of violence, leaving her family and friends with enduring grief and pain, and causing shock in the wider community.
"This was a very complex and challenging case which drew from multiple strands of evidence, including detailed analysis of video footage, mobile phone material, and forensic evidence. The PPS worked closely with PSNI to build the case, which was prosecuted properly and at its height.
"The decision to prosecute is based on a legal test that is different from the test a court applies when deciding guilt. We are satisfied that our legal test for prosecution was met and that it was in the public interest to bring the case. The case successfully overcame a number of robust legal challenges during the proceedings.
"We recognise that today's acquittals will be deeply disappointing to Lyra's family and loved ones. Our thoughts are foremost with them as they continue to endure the profound loss caused by her murder."
The PPS confirmed on 3 July 2026 that it acknowledged the acquittal of the three defendants, which related to the fatal shooting of Ms McKee in April 2019.
Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Michael Agnew said: "Lyra McKee's life was taken in a reckless act of violence, leaving her family and friends with enduring grief and pain, and causing shock in the wider community.
"The decision to prosecute is based on a legal test that is different from the test a court applies when deciding guilt. We are satisfied that our legal test for prosecution was met and that it was in the public interest to bring the case. The case successfully overcame a number of robust legal challenges during the proceedings.
"We recognise that today's acquittals will be deeply disappointing to Lyra's family and loved ones. Our thoughts are foremost with them as they continue to endure the profound loss caused by her murder."
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Cloudy with some occasional rain or drizzle this morning, mainly across the north. Otherwise a dry day with some brightness breaking through this afternoon. Warm. Maximum temperature 22 °C.Tonight:Dry this evening with some late brightness. Otherwise becoming cloudy overnight with some light and patchy rain developing across the north and west at times. Minimum temperature 13 °C.