Outrage as Soldier F Cleared in Bloody Sunday Case
The families of Bloody Sunday victims have condemned the acquittal of former British soldier Soldier F, who faced charges for the 1972 massacre in Derry. A Belfast court dismissed the case on [insert date], sparking renewed grief and anger among relatives of the 14 unarmed protesters killed by British troops.
Bloody Sunday: A Dark Chapter in The Troubles
On January 30, 1972, British paratroopers opened fire on a civil rights march in Derry’s Bogside area, killing 13 immediately and fatally wounding another. The Saville Inquiry (2010) later called the shootings “unjustified,” but prosecutions have stalled for decades.
Soldier F—the only serviceman charged—was accused of murdering James Wray and William McKinney and attempting to kill four others. The case collapsed when key witness statements were ruled inadmissible, leaving families devastated.
Families React: “No Accountability for British Soldiers”
Relatives of the victims slammed the verdict as another denial of justice.
- John Kelly (brother of victim Michael Kelly, 17): “This is a disgrace. After 50 years, the system has failed us again.”
- Mickey McKinney (brother of William McKinney): “British soldiers act above the law. Our loved ones were innocent—where’s the justice?”
A vigil at Derry’s Bloody Sunday memorial saw crowds lay flowers and pledge to keep fighting. Many criticized systemic impunity for British forces during The Troubles.
Political and Legal Backlash
The ruling drew sharp responses:
– Sinn Féin’s Michelle O’Neill: Called it “a slap in the face” and demanded new investigations.
– Amnesty International: Warned the case highlights unresolved legacy issues.
The UK’s Troubles Legacy Bill, offering immunity to ex-soldiers, has worsened tensions.
The Fight for Justice Continues
Families are exploring civil lawsuits and international inquiries. For them, the battle is also about truth:
“They silenced our brothers in 1972, but not our demand for justice,” said Kate Nash, sister of victim William Nash.
As Derry mourns, Bloody Sunday’s wounds remain open.
— NextMinuteNews
