Northern Ireland Paratrooper Soldier F Found Not Guilty in 1972 Bloody Sunday Trial

Soldier F, a former paratrooper, has been found not guilty of two murders and five attempted murders related to the Bloody Sunday shootings in Londonderry in 1972, where British soldiers opened fire on unarmed civil rights protesters, killing 13 and injuring 15. The trial, held without a jury and presided over by Judge Patrick Lynch, concluded that the evidence against Soldier F fell short of what was required for conviction, prompting criticism of the prosecution process. The verdict has elicited mixed reactions: while some unionist politicians call for acceptance of the decision and peace for Soldier F, families of the victims express deep disappointment and accuse the British Army and authorities of failing to properly investigate and hold soldiers accountable. The brother of one victim called Soldier F a 'coward,' emphasizing the lasting pain caused to families and communities. The trial has reopened old wounds related to one of the darkest days of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, highlighting ongoing divisions over justice and memory. The case also raised questions about the adequacy of evidence and legal processes in addressing historical conflict-related crimes.