Northern Ireland

Pensioner (78) flees Derry home during trouble linked to bonfire material

The fence of an elderly woman was damaged during trouble in Derry
The fence of an elderly woman was damaged during trouble in Derry

An elderly woman was forced to flee her home during rioting linked to the removal of bonfire material in Derry.

Trouble flared after contractors removed material in the Galliagh area as police looked on earlier this week.

Read More:  Second night of disorder in Derry as shots fired in Galliagh area

Teenage girl will require surgery after sustaining serious facial injuries during Derry disorder

It is reported the woman was alerted to the blaze in Glendale Park by people in the area.

The pensioner later left the house with members of her family.

The woman's daughter later urged young people not to target their own community.

"Somebody out there knows who targeted my mother's home, a 78-year-old woman who never harmed a being in her life," she said.

"Why? I want answers.

"This is not on. They are doing rioting in Galliagh Park. Why? Don't target your own crowd. You're targeting your own people here."

Earlier this week there were reports of shots being fired by armed men in the Galliagh area.

It also emerged that a 19-year-old woman named Molly will require surgery after suffering a broken jaw and a laceration to her face when a car was set alight in the estate.

A burnt-out car in Derry's Galliagh area following this week's disorder. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin
A burnt-out car in Derry's Galliagh area following this week's disorder. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin

A man was also pulled from his vehicle as he drove in the Galliagh Park area and was struck on the head before his car was set alight.

Meanwhile, the PSNI has defended its response to the recent trouble.

Chief Superintendent Nigel Goddard
Chief Superintendent Nigel Goddard

Derry City and Strabane Area Commander Chief Superintendent Nigel Goddard said: “At this point in time, we are satisfied that our response is proportionate and has the support of the vast majority of the Galliagh community.

"Neither police or the community want the disorder to continue, but that is what those involved in recent events are seeking to achieve."

He said police are continuing to monitor the situation.

"We are continually assessing the situation, and are in close contact with community representatives and partner agencies to manage and respond appropriately," he said.

"Our officers have been in the area over the past couple of days carrying out investigations, which are ongoing, and police will work to bring those responsible before the court.”