Family of First Troubles Victim to Receive Compensation

The family of Patrick Rooney, the first child to die in the Troubles, is set to receive “significant compensation” for his killing by police in west Belfast. This announcement was made during a High Court hearing, accompanied by an apology for the decades of hurt and suffering endured by the family since Patrick’s death in August 1969.

The settlement stems from a legal action brought by Patrick’s mother against the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) alleging unlawful death. Mr. Justice Kevin Rooney described the case as “exceptionally sad” and urged authorities to expedite the approval of the undisclosed compensation amount.

The events of August 1969

Nine-year-old Patrick Rooney was fatally shot inside his own home at the Divis Flats. Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) officers opened fire with vehicle-mounted machine guns in an attempt to quell disturbances marking the beginning of the troubles. The Rooney family, including Patrick and his five siblings, had sought shelter in a bedroom, hoping to avoid the escalating violence outside.

Approximately 200 high-velocity rounds were fired, impacting multiple properties within the tower blocks. Patrick was tragically struck in the head while in the presence of his family. His parents were unable to promptly access medical assistance.

Instead, Patrick’s father, Neilly, and other civilians were forced to carry him through the affected area to reach an awaiting ambulance.

Delayed Investigation and Ombudsman Report

Following the shooting,the Rooney family alleges that the RUC actively obstructed a thorough and effective investigation into the circumstances surrounding Patrick’s death.

In 2021, a Police Ombudsman report confirmed significant operational and investigative failures related to the killing of Patrick and three other individuals in Belfast during that period. The report highlighted issues with the use of Browning machine guns and the subsequent handling of the investigation.

Key Takeaways

• The Rooney family will receive compensation for the unlawful death of Patrick rooney.
• An apology was issued to the family for their suffering.
• The shooting occurred during escalating disturbances at the start of the Troubles.
• A 2021 Police Ombudsman report identified failures in the initial investigation.