A former British paratrooper known only as Soldier F has been found not guilty of murdering two civilians and attempting to murder five others during the Bloody Sunday shootings in Northern Ireland more than half a century ago.
The veteran, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was accused of killing James Wray and William McKinney during the civil rights march in Londonderry (Derry) on 30 January 1972.
Delivering his verdict at Belfast Crown Court on Thursday, Judge Patrick Lynch said the evidence against the former soldier “fell well short” of the standard required for conviction.
The court heard that Thirteen people were shot dead by the Parachute Regiment during the incident, which remains one of the darkest days of the Troubles.
Prosecutors relied on historical statements from two paratroopers – known as G and H – who claimed Soldier F opened fire in Glenfada Park North. The defence, however, argued the pair were unreliable witnesses, citing inconsistencies in their accounts and contradictions with other evidence.
Soldier F did not take the stand during the trial, which was held without a jury.
Following the ruling, a Ministry of Defence spokesperson said:
“The MOD has provided legal and welfare support throughout, as it does for any veteran involved in a legal process arising from their duties.
This case is part of the complex legacy of the Troubles, which affected so many families and communities.”
The government added that it remained committed to acknowledging the past while supporting those who served “during an incredibly difficult period” in Northern Ireland’s history.
However, the family of William McKinney condemned the outcome, saying through their solicitor:
“Soldier F has been discharged from the defendant’s criminal dock, but it is one million miles away from being an honourable discharge.”
In a statement read outside court, relatives of the victims accused the British state, the RUC, and the Parachute Regiment of long-standing failures in accountability, insisting their campaign for justice would continue.
