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Judge begins delivering verdicts in Soldier F case

The former soldier, named as Soldier F, was a member of the parachute regiment (Photo: William L Rukeyser)
The former soldier, named as Soldier F, was a member of the parachute regiment (Photo: William L Rukeyser)

A judge has begun to deliver his verdicts in the Soldier F trial at Belfast Crown Court.

The veteran, referred to as Soldier F for legal reasons, is accused of the murders of James Wray and William McKinney during disorder after a civil rights parade in Derry on 30 January 1972.

Some 13 people were shot dead by the Parachute Regiment on that day.

Soldier F is also accused of attempting to murder Michael Quinn, Patrick O'Donnell, Joseph Friel, Joe Mahon and an unknown person.

He has pleaded not guilty to the seven counts.

The families of some the victims of Bloody Sunday are in attendance.

Families of the victims of Bloody Sunday at Belfast Crown Court for the Solider F verdict
Families of victims of Bloody Sunday at Belfast Crown Court

Judge Patrick Lynch heard evidence during a four-week trial which included statements by two of Soldier F's colleagues.

While the prosecution argue this is key evidence that places Soldier F in Glenfada Park North and opening fire, the defence say Soldiers G and H are unreliable witnesses.

Soldier F has been present at Belfast Crown Court for each day of the trial with his identify concealed behind a curtain in the court room.

Relatives of the men killed and supporters have attended each day of the trial.