The commanding officer of the British soldier who fired the fatal shot that killed a 15-year-old Derry boy over 44 years ago, wept in court today as he offered the family his condolences.
Trevor Wilson (79) appeared before the court as a witness in the inquest into the death of Manus Deery who was shot dead near his Bogside home in May 1972.
He was killed by a high velocity bullet fired by a soldier previously known as “Soldier A.” Now deceased, he was named earlier this week as William Glasgow.
While giving evidence at today's sitting of the inquest being held in Derry Courthouse, Glasgow's commanding officer at the time, Trevor Wilson, said he had not sought nor been given further information about the shooting after it occurred and that, until 18 months ago, he had believed Manus Deery to have been a gunman that Glasgow had shot.
He said he believed Glasgow had been right to fire upon a perceived gunman, despite the alleged gun being by his side and not in position for attack.
“I believe the soldier was within his rights to fire the shots, unequivocally,” he said.
However, at the end of his evidence when asked if he wished to say anything to the family, he replied: 'It is difficult to comprehend the devastating effect that the loss of Manus, at such a young age and in such tragic circumstances, must have had on the family.
“You have my deepest sympathy and I hope this enquiry may provide some comfort to you.
“Finally, I shall continue to remember Manus and you in my thoughts and prayers.'
The Deery family spoke privately with Mr Wilson and his family as he left court.
The inquest continues on Monday.
See Monday's Derry News for full report.
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