Lyra McKee murder: Crimestoppers offering £20,000 for information leading to conviction of those responsible
Detectives from the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team, investigating the murder of 29-year-old journalist Lyra McKee, who was shot dead by terrorists in Londonderry on 18 April 2019, have issued a renewed appeal for information.
The appeal is supported by the independent charity Crimestoppers, which is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information given directly to the charity that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
Calls to Crimestoppers are never recorded, there’s no caller line display or 1471 facility, and computer IP addresses can never be traced.
Detective Chief Inspector Hazel Miller said: “My thoughts remain, above all else, with Lyra’s loving family and friends. Her murder robbed them of a much-loved daughter, sister, partner, friend and colleague, and they have had to live with the pain of that loss every day since.
“No family should have to endure this ongoing torment. They deserve answers. They deserve to see those responsible held accountable.
“For more than seven years, detectives have worked tirelessly and with determination, to bring those responsible for this senseless and devastating murder to justice. That commitment has not weakened with time; it remains as strong today as it was on the day Lyra was killed.
“I very much welcome the Crimestoppers renewed reward of up to £20,000 for information given directly to them which leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Importantly, the charity guarantees total anonymity.”
Detective Chief Inspector Miller continued: “In particular, we are seeking information on the gunman who carried out this senseless killing.
“I know there are people who have information but may feel unable, reluctant or frightened to come forward. I am appealing directly to you, please take this opportunity to do the right thing. Your information, however small or unimportant it may seem, could be the missing piece that helps us deliver justice for Lyra and her family.
“People’s circumstances change. Allegiances change. The reasons that may once have stopped someone speaking to police may no longer apply. We remain ready to listen, and we will treat every piece of information with the seriousness it deserves.
She added: “Lyra’s murder caused deep hurt and lasting trauma—not only for those who loved her, but across the wider community. The condemnation of her killing was unequivocal, and the impact of that terrible night is still felt today.
“If you know something, I urge you not to carry that information any longer. Please come forward. Make the call. Help us provide the answers Lyra’s family have waited far too long to receive.”
Information can be given, with 100% anonymity, to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org
It can also be provided to police online at www.reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals or by calling 101.