Northern Ireland

Co Derry victim survives shooting attack after gun jams

Police said the intended victim of a shooting attack in Ballykelly only escaped because his attacker's gun jammed.
Police said the intended victim of a shooting attack in Ballykelly only escaped because his attacker's gun jammed. Police said the intended victim of a shooting attack in Ballykelly only escaped because his attacker's gun jammed.

A MAN who escaped a shooting attempt when his attacker's gun jammed has been forced to leave his home.

The victim, who was in his twenties, was confronted by three masked men, one of whom was armed with a gun, near a playpark in Ballykelly, Co Derry on Sunday.

It is understood the victim was not originally from the area but had been living in King's Lane in the village for approximately a year. Local people said the man moved out following the attack.

Police said the attempted shooting occurred shortly after 7.30pm on Sunday.

A spokeswoman said an armed male pointed the weapon at the victim and "it is believed that he pulled the trigger".

"However, it appears that the gun jammed. The suspects then made off towards Drummond Park," she added.

While the victim was not injured, he was left badly shaken.

Chairwoman of the Ballykelly Residents’ Association, Emma Young said the incident caused widespread shock and anger.

"King's Lane is the biggest housing estate in Ballykelly but children from all across the village come here to play and children were playing in the area at the time," she said.

"People are very angry that this could happen in broad daylight on a summer's evening. Parents are concerned and are wondering if it’s safe to let their children out to play or if the weapon has been found."

Sinn Féin councillor Dermot Nicholl said the attack was an attempt to kill or injure.

"There is no place for guns in our society and those responsible for the attack must be taken off the streets and should face due process in the courts," he said.

SDLP councillor Orla Beattie said the fact that the attempted shooting took place in daylight has caused widespread anger.

"This was at a time when the community centre is closed because of Covid-19 and children are on holidays and were playing in the area. People are angry that these three individuals believed it was OK to come into the area and do this in front of children,” Ms Beattie said.