In a court hearing at Belfast Crown Court today, Connor McNeill (pictured)pleaded guilty to the murder of Stephen Barriskill. The 63-year-old Mr. Barriskill was tragically killed in his Portadown home on the evening of October 26, 2021.
McNeill, who had been previously sentenced to life, was informed that he would serve a minimum of 15 and a half years before being eligible to apply for release.
According to Detective Chief Inspector Neil McGuinness, McNeill voluntarily approached the police on October 27, 2021, and confessed to the fatal shooting of his 63-year-old neighbour, Stephen Barriskill. The incident took place the previous evening, and McNeill claimed to have used a legally held shotgun.
Upon arriving at the Portadown address, officers discovered Mr. Barriskill deceased, having suffered two gunshot wounds to the chest. Following consultation with the Public Prosecution Service, McNeill was formally charged with the murder of Stephen Barriskill on October 28.
Detective Chief Inspector McGuinness acknowledged that while the investigation was straightforward in terms of McNeill presenting himself to the police, the case remains distressing and shocking for all involved. The callous act has left behind a grieving family, and McGuinness expressed his condolences and support for them during this difficult time.
More news from Belfast
