A senior detective in Northern Ireland, Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell, has spoken about the traumatic experience children endured when he was shot at a sports complex in Omagh, County Tyrone. Speaking at the Sunday Life’s Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards, Det Ch Insp Caldwell expressed his sorrow that innocent children, including his own son, were exposed to such a harrowing ordeal. He received a special award at the event and praised the exceptional medical staff who provided him with care.
Det Ch Insp Caldwell expressed gratitude to those who assisted him on the night of the shooting and acknowledged their bravery for putting themselves in harm’s way. He also thanked the emergency services and medical professionals who supported him during his recovery. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, in a pre-recorded message, described the detective as a true hero of Northern Ireland and commended his dedication to the society he loves. The event marked Det Ch Insp Caldwell’s second public appearance since leaving the hospital.
During his recovery, Det Ch Insp Caldwell had a private meeting with King Charles during the monarch’s first official visit to Northern Ireland following his coronation. PSNI Chief Constable Simon Byrne also paid tribute to the senior officer, praising his determination and stoicism. The New IRA, a dissident Republican group, claimed responsibility for the shooting. Seven individuals have been charged in connection with the attack and were remanded in custody to appear before Omagh Magistrates’ Court on June 27.
