A JUDGMENT IS due to be delivered today in the trial of three men accused of the murder of journalist Lyra McKee.

The ruling is expected at Belfast Crown Court following a lengthy non-jury trial that heard evidence over several months.

McKee, 29, was shot dead while observing rioting in the Creggan area of Derry on 18 April 2019 after a gunman fired towards police.

The New IRA later claimed responsibility for her killing.

The prosecution alleges the three men jointly participated in the shooting by accompanying and assisting the gunman. They deny the charges.

The trial, which began in May 2024, also heard evidence against six other men accused of offences linked to the rioting on the night McKee was killed.

A verdict in the trial is expected later today.

The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) expressed solidarity with McKee’s family this morning.

“On a day like this we are reminded of what we have lost,” NUJ assistant general secretary Séamus Dooley said.

“Lyra was a shining star with so much to offer. As this chapter closes we continue to mourn Lyra but will also take time to celebrate her remarkable contribution to journalism.”

Additonal reporting from PA