Lyra Mckee: 27-year-old man arrested in connection with murder of Northern Ireland journalist

Detectives have arrested a 27-year-old man in connection with the murder of journalist Lyra McKee, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has confirmed.

The suspect was arrested in Derry and has since been transferred to Musgrave police station in Belfast where he is being questioned under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

Investigators conducted a search at a property in Derry, the PSNI added in a statement on Wednesday.

McKee, a rising star in the world of journalism, was shot dead in April 2019 while observing a riot in the Creggan area of Derry.

The New IRA claimed responsibility for the murder which was condemned by leaders in Stormont and sparked international outrage.

McKee, who was due to publish a book investigating the IRA killing of MP Robert Bradford in 1981, covered sectarianism extensively throughout her career.

Last month, police found the handgun used to kill Ms McKee.

The Hammerli X-Esse .22 pistol was discovered during searches in the Ballymagroarty area of Derry.

In February, a 52-year-old man appeared in court in the city charged with the author’s murder.