Lyra McKee murder: Accused ‘picked up gunman’s bullet casings’

Seventeen points of reference on clothing worn by Paul McIntrye, 52, links him to the killing carried out amid rioting in Londonderry, it was claimed.

Details emerged as the Public Prosecution Service mounted an appeal against McIntyre being granted bail.

Ms McKee, 29, was shot as she observed street disorder in the city’s Creggan area on April 18.

Police had come under attack by stones, petrol bombs and other missiles, while vehicles were also hijacked during the unrest.

McIntrye, with an address at Kinnego Park, was initially charged with rioting, petrol bomb offences, and the arson of a tipper truck.

But last month he was further charged with the journalist’s murder, possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life, and belonging to a proscribed organisation.

Challenging a magistrates’ court decision to grant bail, Crown lawyer Robin Steer claimed McIntyre can be identified by clothing on mobile phone and television footage.

Counsel submitted that the accused is seen throwing and lighting petrol bombs, and emerging from the truck which was then set on fire.

Later in the footage an unidentified gunman emerges, with McIntyre allegedly identified escorting him to the area where the shooting occurred.

“The gunman fires a number of shots, and the prosecution say this applicant is crouching down directly behind him, picking up four cartridge cases which have been ejected from the gun,” Mr Steer said.

The appeal hearing continues.