New investigation launched into Loughinisland killings
The North’s Police Ombudsman is to launch a fresh investigation into the loyalist gun killings at Loughinisland.
Dr Michael Maguire’s inquiry into the police’s handling of the case comes after families of the six men killed in the 1994 shootings criticised his predecessor’s examination of the murders.
Last year, former ombudsman Al Hutchinson found there was insufficient evidence to prove collusion between the police and the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) gang which carried out the attack.
Relatives of the dead men branded the findings a whitewash and launched a High Court challenge.
Gunmen burst into the Heights Bar in the Co Down village and opened fire on customers, who were watching the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup clash against Italy.
All of the victims were Catholic.
Dr Maguire conducted a review of Mr Hutchinson’s report in the wake of the families’ legal bid.
It is understood his new investigation will focus on apparently conflicting statements from a police officer and a witness.
