Verdict expected in Soldier F trial over Bloody Sunday murders

By Rebecca Black, PA

The verdict in the trial of a former paratrooper accused of two murders during the Bloody Sunday shootings in 1972 is expected to be delivered.

The veteran, referred to as Soldier F for legal reasons, is accused of the murders of James Wray and William McKinney during disorder after a civil rights parade in Derry on January 30th, 1972.

Some 13 people were shot dead by the Parachute Regiment on that day.

Soldier F is also accused of attempting to murder Michael Quinn, Patrick O’Donnell, Joseph Friel, Joe Mahon and an unknown person.

He has pleaded not guilty to the seven counts.

Judge Patrick Lynch heard evidence across a four-week trial, which included statements by two of Soldier F’s colleagues.

While the prosecution argue this is key evidence that places Soldier F in Glenfada Park North and opening fire, the defence say Soldiers G and H are unreliable witnesses.

Soldier F has been present at Belfast Crown Court for each day of the trial with his identity concealed behind a curtain in the courtroom.

Relatives of the men killed and supporters have attended each day of the trial.

Northern Ireland’s Veterans’ Commissioner, David Johnstone and Paul Young from the Northern Ireland Veterans Movement have also observed proceedings.