Inquest to hear evidence on British Army killing

A new investigation is to be launched into the death of a Bogside man who was crushed by a British Army vehicle during riots around the Protestant marching season in 1996.

Dermott ‘Tonto’ McShane, a 35-year-old machine tool operator, died on July 13, after being run over by an armoured personnel carrier as he sheltered under a wooden board.

His fatal injuries occurred during protests over the decision to force an Orange Order parade through the Nationalist Garvaghy Road in Portadown.

The Derry City coroner said yesterday the case will be examined by the newly-established police Serious Crime Investigation Team, in addition to the inquest.

Mr Hunter also said that the driver of the APC can now be called upon to give evidence at the inquest.

The decision comes three years after the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg ruled that the inquiry into Mr McShane’s death had violated his right to life under article 2 of the Human Rights Convention.

It emerged at that time that the driver was not interviewed until six months after the incident.

Mr Hunter said during a preliminary hearing: “Some form of re-investigation would be of help. That may come in the form of additional statements.

“It would be useful to know what terms of reference and the time scales of this Serious Crime Team.

“The driver of the vehicle can now give evidence to the Inquest.

“I can refer the matter to the DPP at any stage if there are any criminal issues.”

Mr Hunter ordered that a list of questions be presented to the jury by counsel for Mr McShane’s wife and family and the PSNI and MoD when the inquest opens next month.

Urgent Appeal