Army criticised over 1996 death

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An inquest jury has criticised the security forces over the death of a rioter who was crushed by an Army vehicle in Londonderry 12 years ago.

Dermot McShane, 35, a former INLA man, was run over by an Army Saxon vehicle as he sheltered behind a hoarding.

The jury unanimously found that the proper military procedures were not followed, and communication between the police and army had broken down.

They also found that other rioters had left Mr McShane in a drunken state.

Mr McShane's brother-in-law, Peter Gillen, said the family was "deeply relieved" the inquest was over.

"As a family we are happy with the verdict the jury has returned here today."

The inquest, at Londonderry Crown Court, heard 17 days of evidence from 60 witnesses.

It was revealed that during the disturbances in July 1996 the security forces fired 946 plastic bullets.

1,200 petrol bombs were thrown by rioters.

The driver of the army vehicle and another soldier refused to give evidence.