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01 Nov 2025

50th anniversary commemorative events to be held for Bellaghy man murdered on way home from Croke Park

Colm McCartney from Bellaghy was tragically murdered alongside his friend Sean Farmer, as they returned home from a Gaelic football semi-final in Dublin in 1975

50th anniversary commemorative events to be held for Bellaghy man murdered on way home from Croke Park

Colm McCartney (inset) will be remembered in Bellaghy this month on the 50th anniversary of his murder.

This August marks 50 years since Colm McCartney from Bellaghy was tragically murdered alongside his friend Sean Farmer, as they returned home from a Gaelic football semi-final at Croke Park.

On that harrowing night in 1975, the two men were stopped at what is believed to have been a bogus checkpoint operated by individuals in military-style uniforms. Both were shot multiple times and killed.

Despite decades of investigations, reports, and legal proceedings, their families continue to seek truth and justice.

To honour his memory on this significant anniversary a commemorative event, organised by his family and friends, will be held at his graveside on Monday, August 25 at 7.30pm.

Guest speakers include Mark Thompson from Relatives for Justice and Paul O’Connor from the Pat Finucane Centre, who will reflect on Colm’s life, the circumstances of his death, and the enduring campaign for justice for both men.

Colm's anniversary mass will be held in St Mary's Chapel, Bellaghy on Thursday, August 28 at 7.30pm.

They extend a welcome to everyone who wishes to attend.

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