Derry Court: Two men will stand trial charged with murder of journalist Lyra McKee

Eight men have been returned for trial to Belfast Crown Court on charges linked to the shooting and rioting on the night journalist Lyra McKee was shot dead.

Lyra McKee, a journalist, was shot dead on April 18 2019 and the New IRA claimed responsibility for the shooting.

Peter Gearoid Cavanagh (33) of Elmwood Terrace and Jordan Devine (21) of Synge Court both in Derry are charged with the murder of Lyra McKee on April 18 2019 and also charged in connection with the rioting on the same date.

Patrick Gallagher (29) of Pinetrees, Joe Campbell (21) of Goshaden Cottages, Kieran McCool (53) of Ballymagowan Gardens, Jude McCrory (24) of Magowan Park, Joseph Barr (33) of Cecilia's Walk and William Patrick Elliott (56) of Ballymagowan Gardens all in Derry are all charged with rioting and throwing petrol bombs on the same.

All eight had appeared at a Preliminary Inquiry at Derry Magistrate's Court last week when some of the alleged evidence against them was given.

Today District Judge Ted Magill ruled that any matters that had arisen in the course of the Preliminary Inquiry were 'clearly matters for the trial'.

A prosecution barrister submitted that there was a case to answer and there were no contrary submissions.

Derry Court: Lyra McKee murder accused given permission to attend Bloody Sunday march

When the defendants were asked if they wished to call any witnesses or make any statement at this stage none of them answered and Judge Magill ruled that constituted a no. 

All eight were returned for trial to Belfast Crown Court on a date to be fixed and released on continuing bail.