Elderly Mother Challenges Coroner’s Justification of SAS Shooting in Co Derry
The mother of Francis Bradley, an Irish man shot by the SAS in 1986, is challenging a coroner’s ruling. The coroner stated that the use of lethal force during the incident was “reasonable.”
Bradley, who was 20 at the time, was ambushed and shot eight times near an arms dump in Toome. His family, along with the local community, believes he was a victim of a shoot-to-kill policy.
The new challenge comes after Coroner Peter Irvine confirmed that lethal force was justified. Evidence showed that 21 shots were fired at Bradley while he was near the arms dump. Initial gunfire, which struck him and shattered his pelvis, came from an SAS soldier referred to as Soldier A. Subsequent shots were fired by another soldier, Soldier C, who also did not provide an explanation for his actions during the inquest.
Mrs. Rosemary Bradley, Francis’s 83-year-old mother, plans to contest the coroner’s findings. The coroner noted that Bradley was likely lying on the ground when the fatal shots hit him.
What are the grounds for the Bradley family’s appeal against the coroner’s ruling in Francis Bradley’s shooting case?
Interview with Solicitor Fearghal Shiels: Challenging the Coroner’s Ruling in the Shooting of Francis Bradley
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Shiels. The case of Francis Bradley has raised significant concerns in the community, especially following the coroner’s recent ruling. Can you explain why the Bradley family is contesting this decision?
Fearghal Shiels: Thank you for having me. The Bradley family is contesting the coroner’s ruling on the basis that the justification for lethal force used by the SAS is not supported by the evidence presented during the inquest. The family believes that the coroner’s findings overly favor the soldiers involved rather than providing an accurate account of the events that led to Francis’s death.
Interviewer: What specifics from the evidence do you believe undermine the coroner’s conclusion?
Fearghal Shiels: The coroner highlighted that 21 shots were fired at Francis, and he was likely lying on the ground when he was fatally shot. This raises questions about the necessity and reasonableness of the use of lethal force at that moment. The testimonies indicate a serious discrepancy between the actions of the soldiers and the circumstances that warranted such a response. Furthermore, the lack of explanation from Soldier C during the inquest is particularly troubling and raises further questions about accountability.
Interviewer: Mrs. Rosemary Bradley, Francis’s mother, is 83 years old and has personally taken this challenge to court. What impact does her age have on this case, and how does it influence the family’s quest for justice?
Fearghal Shiels: Mrs. Bradley’s age undoubtedly adds a sense of urgency to the situation. She represents not only her son’s legacy but also the pain and loss felt by many families affected by similar incidents during the Troubles. Her determination to seek justice reflects a broader desire for accountability and truth, not just for her son but for others who have suffered in similar circumstances. Her personal commitment emphasizes the emotional and historical significance of the case.
Interviewer: How do you plan to argue for the dismissal of the coroner’s conclusions in court?
Fearghal Shiels: Our approach will focus on demonstrating that the coroner’s conclusions are lacking in robust evidential support. We will present arguments that question the rationale behind the use of lethal force and examine the context of the incident, including the actions of the soldiers and the environment in which Francis was shot. We believe that, given the evidence, the ruling does not align with a fair assessment of what happened that day.
Interviewer: What do you hope to achieve for the Bradley family through this legal challenge?
Fearghal Shiels: Our primary goal is to secure justice for Francis Bradley and to uncover the truth surrounding the events of that day. We hope to achieve a more thorough investigation that holds those responsible accountable and provides clarity to the family and the community. Furthermore, we aim to challenge and change the narrative that allows for excessive use of lethal force without proper justification.
Interviewer: Thank you, Mr. Shiels. As this case unfolds, it’s clear that it resonates deeply within the community, and we appreciate your insights.
Fearghal Shiels: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important issue. It’s crucial that we continue to seek justice and accountability in cases like these.
Bradley’s brother Brian expressed frustration over the coroner’s verdict, stating it does not match the evidence presented. He believes the findings favor the soldiers’ actions rather than reflect the truth of what happened.
Solicitor Fearghal Shiels will argue for the court to dismiss the coroner’s conclusions, stating they lack strong support. The Bradley family continues to seek justice for Francis and clarity over the circumstances of his death.