Northern Ireland

Father of two children killed in INLA linked shootings dies

Kevin 'Maxi' McAlorum has died
Kevin 'Maxi' McAlorum has died Kevin 'Maxi' McAlorum has died

A NORTH Belfast man who had two children killed in INLA linked shootings has died.

Kevin McAlorum, who was known as 'Maxi' is believed to have died last week.

It is understood Mr McAlorum suffered from COPD, a lung condition that causes breathing difficulties.

Aged in his late sixties, he lost two children during the Troubles.

His son Kevin was shot dead outside Oakwood Integrated Primary School in Derriaghy, near Lisburn, shortly after dropping off his young child in June 2004.

The 31-year-old was driving away from the school when his car was rammed by a van and two gunmen got out and opened fire.

He is suspected of shooting dead former INLA Chief of Staff Gino Gallagher (32) in January 1996 as part of an INLA feud.

His younger sister Barbara (9) was also shot dead during the same INLA fall out at her north Belfast home in March 1996.

Maxi McAlorum, who was a well-known figure in north Belfast, was in prison serving a sentence for armed robbery when his son was shot dead.

His family was beset by more tragedy in 2010 when her mother Margaret died after choking while other members of Mr McAlorum's extended family have since died in tragic circumstances.