DETECTIVES have made a fresh appeal for information into the murder of policeman Michael Ferguson in Derry, 26 years on from his death.
Constable Ferguson, 21, was shot dead while on duty in Shipquay Street in the city at around 2pm on Saturday, January 23, 1993.
He was shot twice in the back of the head outside the Richmond Shopping Centre while waiting for two colleagues who were inside responding to a reported theft.
The lone gunman made off on foot along Shipquay Street before entering Castle Street in the direction of the Bogside.
‘Extremely Close’
“We are following a number of definite lines of enquiry and I believe we are extremely close to progressing criminal justice action against Michael’s killers,” said Detective Inspector Conor Sweeney from the Legacy Investigation Branch.
“My appeal today is aimed at the local people of Derry/Londonderry who were in Shipquay Street on the day Michael was murdered.
“The gunman did not have his face covered and was wearing a distinctive green jacket. I believe that someone knows who this gunman was.
“Michael was a young man murdered while responding to a reported theft from a local shop. I would ask everyone listening to just stop and think about that for a second.
“Murdered for no other reason than he was providing a service to help local businesses, local community and local people.”
Allegiances
DI Sweeney believes allegiance may have changed over the years and urged anyone with information to come forward.
“I am aware that time has passed since the murder but it is not too late, if anyone now feels they are able to talk to us, we are ready to listen,” he said.
“To those involved I would appeal to them to do the right thing and make a difference to Michael’s family.
“They will no longer have to live with the worry that someday soon police are going to knock on their door.”
Anyone with information can contact detectives at the Legacy Investigation Branch on 101 or [email protected].
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
