Lyra McKee murder: Police release new footage of masked 'New IRA gunman' wanted over journalist's killing
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Lyra McKee murder: Police release new footage of masked 'New IRA gunman' wanted over journalist's killing

POLICE in Northern Ireland have released new surveillance footage of the suspect they believe murdered journalist Lyra McKee.

The masked man can be seen walking alongside two other males in Derry's Creggan estate about a minute before the 29-year-old's killing last Thursday.

Speaking at a press conference this morning, PSNI Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy said he believes the main suspect to be aged in his late teens, relatively short in height and with a stocky build.

The man appears to be holding a gun in his right hand in one of the images, while one of the other men is said to be carrying a crate of petrol bombs.

Speaking about the main suspect, Det Supt Murphy said: "He is shorter than both of the other men and is of stocky build.

"It is of my belief that he is the gunman that fired indiscriminately into the crowd and placed the community and police officers at risk.

"I believe he is the person who took the life of Lyra McKee."

Earlier this week, the New IRA admitted its members had carried out the killing and apologised to the McKee family.

The PSNI are urging the public in Derry to overcome any fears they have about coming forward and help detectives identify the men captured on CCTV, while a reward of up to £10,000 has been offered for information by Crimestoppers.

Det Supt Murphy added: "I think people in the community know who they are and I'm asking them today to come forward to help us.

"I'm releasing footage today from the night of Lyra's murder and I want to appeal to anyone who recognises or knows these people to talk to us."

Police say more than 140 people have provided images, footage and other details regarding the murder via the dedicated Major Incident Public Portal.

Det Supt Murphy thanked the public for their widespread support, but reiterated that members of the Derry community hold information that could unlock details of who is responsible for Ms McKee's death.

He also made a direct appeal to the gunman, challenging him to come forward and explain why he fired the fatal shots and tell Ms McKee's loved-ones why she was killed.

Anyone with information, or who witnessed the murder, is urged to contact police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.