Army veteran who took his own life a ‘victim of the IRA’

An army veteran under investigation for his actions in Northern Ireland during the Troubles has taken his own life.
By Digital Reporter
Published 24th Feb 2020, 14:44 BST
Updated 24th Feb 2020, 16:10 BST
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The man, named by friends and family as Eddie ‘Spud’ Murphy, passed away last week.

Mr. Murphy served with 1st Battalion, Royal Highland Fusiliers, in Northern Ireland.

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People paid tribute to Mr. Murphy on social media over the weekend.

An archive image of an army checkpoint in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. (Photo: Pacemaker)An archive image of an army checkpoint in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. (Photo: Pacemaker)
An archive image of an army checkpoint in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. (Photo: Pacemaker)

Minister for Defence People and Veterans in the Ministry of Defence, Johnny Mercer MP, said he was aware of Mr. Murphy’s passing.

“I am aware of this, and my heart goes out to this individual and his family,” said Mr. Mercer.

“This Prime Minister [Boris Johnson] has promised legislation to end vexatious and repeated prosecution of veterans without new evidence. He tasked me to do it. By 18th March. And we will,” he added.

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The first mention of Mr. Murphy’s sudden death came when a friend calling himself Dukesy paid tribute to the ex-soldier on social media.

“My friend took his life today [Thursday February 20, 2020],” he said.

“He served in Northern Ireland, was blown up by the IRA and fortunate to survive.

“More recently he was subject to the historic inquiry witch-hunt.

“He tried to take his life three times before, this time he succeeded.

“A victim of the IRA.

“RIP Spud,” he added.