Soldier F Bloody Sunday Trial Set for September in Belfast Court

A judge said a trial will happen this September. It involves a former British soldier, called ‘Soldier F’ in court. The case was discussed in Belfast Crown Court. The trial should start around seven months from now.

Soldiers killed protesters in Derry in 1972. They were from the Parachute Regiment. One soldier is accused of murder. His name is not public, and he pleaded not guilty in court.

Soldier F also denies attempted murder. There are five charges against him. He hid behind a curtain in court during a hearing in December 2024.

The hearing was short. A judge will handle pre-trial matters. They will appoint a special judge soon, and this should happen within days.

The defence lawyer suggested September for the trial. Mark Mulholland KC is the lawyer. He said it gives enough time to prepare and wants to avoid problems. All issues can be sorted first.

The prosecutor agreed to a September date. David McNeill is the prosecuting lawyer. The judge didn’t set a specific date yet, but said the trial is listed for September. The case returns to court on March 18.