Belfast Murder Review: Public Help Sought – 1973 Case
- The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has launched a renewed appeal for details regarding the murder of 10-year-old Brian McDermott, who disappeared from Ormeau Park in Belfast...
- Detectives from the PSNI's Legacy Investigation Branch are currently reviewing the case, 52 years after Brian's death. This review is part of ongoing efforts to investigate unresolved...
PSNI Appeals for Public Help in Reviewing 1973 Murder of Brian McDermott
What Happened?
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has launched a renewed appeal for details regarding the murder of 10-year-old Brian McDermott, who disappeared from Ormeau Park in Belfast on September 2nd, 1973. His remains were discovered in the River Lagan,near the belfast Boat Club,approximately one week later.
The River Lagan near the Belfast Boat Club, the location where Brian McDermott’s remains were recovered.
The Current Review and Appeal
Detectives from the PSNI’s Legacy Investigation Branch are currently reviewing the case, 52 years after Brian’s death. This review is part of ongoing efforts to investigate unresolved cases from the troubles.The PSNI is specifically requesting anyone with information,no matter how insignificant it may seem,to come forward.
The appeal comes as the PSNI continues to grapple with a significant backlog of legacy cases. According to a 2023 report by the Police Ombudsman, over 1,000 deaths during the Troubles remain unresolved. The Legacy Investigation Branch faces challenges including the passage of time, loss of evidence, and difficulties in securing witness testimony.