Lyra McKee's family thank public for their support

Q Newsdesk

Relatives of murdered journalist Lyra McKee have thanked people for their support following her "nightmare" death.

She was shot dead by a dissident republican gunman linked to the New IRA who fired indiscriminately at police lines during disturbances in Londonderry on April 18.

Revulsion at her death has galvanised a new bid for political agreement at Stormont following criticism of the stalemate from a Catholic priest.

Ms McKee's family said: "We know that as our nightmare continues in the weeks, months and years ahead, that we will not be alone.

"We know that you will all continue to support us and we know that we will all rejoice together on the day that justice is achieved for our Lyra."

Her vision for her post-conflict generation and anti-sectarian outlook has inspired widespread praise and sparked calls for political action.

Demands for action from Father Martin Magill and Ms McKee's sister Nichola Corner during her funeral in Belfast spurred the UK Government into a renewed effort to restore Stormont powersharing, due to begin early in May.

(Free Derry Corner)

Ms McKee's family said: "The outpouring of love, respect and admiration for our dear Lyra has been of great comfort to us in these dark days.

"To know that our wee Lyra was so well-loved across the globe, and by people of all walks of life, is a true testament to her personal philosophy and her vision for the world."

"Whilst we have been both honoured and overwhelmed by requests for events in Lyra’s name or inspired by Lyra. We respectfully request that before anyone uses her life or death for any purpose that they consider her legacy of inclusivity and understanding."

"We know that as our nightmare continues in the weeks, months and years ahead, that we will not be alone. We know that you will all continue to support us and we know that we will all rejoice together on the day that justice is achieved for our Lyra."

Police have made a number of arrests and released images of the suspected gunman before and after the killing in Derry's Creggan estate in a bid to encourage witnesses to come forward.

(Lyra McKee)