31 Years On: Police Hunt for Killers of Peter McCormack
Detectives from the PSNI’s Legacy Investigation Branch are urgently seeking new leads on the 31st anniversary of Peter McCormack’s brutal murder. The former schoolteacher was gunned down inside the Thierafurth Inn, Kilcoo, on November 19, 1992.
Terrifying Pub Attack Leaves Innocent Man Dead
Peter McCormack, 42, was fatally shot by two masked gunmen who stormed the pub around 9pm. The vicious attack also left three others injured, including a 69-year-old man who was registered blind. The pub was packed with customers gearing up for a charity darts match when the terrifying sectarian violence shattered the peace.
“Peter was an innocent victim caught up in a sickening sectarian attack,” said Detective Chief Inspector Byrne, Senior Investigating Officer. “This was a cowardly strike on people simply enjoying a night out for charity.”
Gunmen Fled Scene in Stolen Car Left Abandoned in Forest
Witnesses say the gunmen escaped in a stolen grey Ford Orion. Police later found the vehicle abandoned in Tollymore Forest Park, just miles from the pub. The car had been stolen earlier that day from an address in east Belfast.
Police Appeal: It’s Never Too Late to Come Forward
Over three decades later, detectives are still desperate for information. Detective Chief Inspector Byrne has appealed directly to anyone with new or previously unrevealed details to step up.
“If you know anything about this attack, it’s never too late to speak out. The people responsible know who they are. Do the right thing and help Peter’s family find justice,” Byrne urged.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Legacy Investigation Branch at 101 or via email.
