The long-awaited trial of Soldier F reached a crucial conclusion, surviving potential derailment over evidence issues and ultimately delivering a verdict. On September 15, a significant day marked the opening of the trial at Belfast Crown Court, where the former paratrooper faced serious charges relating to the tragic events of Bloody Sunday, which occurred over 50 years ago in Derry.
The soldier, whose identity was protected throughout the trial, was charged with two murders and five attempted murders. The proceedings were held without a jury, drawing attendance from family members of victims and supporters of Soldier F. The prosecution focused on the events at Glenfada Park North, arguing that Soldier F was responsible for the deaths of William McKinney and James Wray.
Key testimony came from statements by two of Soldier F’s colleagues, Soldiers G and H, although neither could testify in person due to death or invoking the right against self-incrimination. The defence challenged these statements as unreliable and inconsistent, but Judge Lynch ultimately allowed them to be considered, despite acknowledging delays that hampered the defence.
As the trial continued, witnesses shared harrowing accounts of Bloody Sunday, including teenage survivors who described playing dead amid the chaos. Despite efforts to halt the trial, Judge Lynch dismissed a no-case-to-answer application, concluding that previous testimonies were untruthful and insufficieant to meet the criminal standard. The verdict was reached on October 23, with Soldier F acquitted of all charges. This landmark trial, steeped in historical and emotional weight, has captured the attention of many and remains a significant chapter in understanding and addressing the legacy of Bloody Sunday.