3 days ago
Two men found guilty over 'carefully planned and brutal' murder of Malcolm McKeown
Two men have been found guilty of the murder of Malcolm McKeown in 2019.
Convicted criminal Malcolm McKeown, 54, who was shot dead whilst sitting in his BMW parked at a service station in Warington Co Armagh in August of that year.
Jake O'Brien, 30, from Rectory Road in Lurgan, County Armagh, and Andrew Thomas Kenneth Martin of Bridge Street in Banbridge, County Down, were both found guilty at Belfast Crown Court on Friday.
Two others- Stevie Lee Watson, 36, from Princeton Avenue in Lurgan and 36-year-old Simon Smyth from Hazelgrove Avenue in Lurgan were both acquitted of murder and possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life.
All four had previously denied involvement.
While the two men will serve life sentences for the killing, the length of time will be decided at a later date.
The court heard how 54 year old McKeown who'd been in prison days earlier, had been shot multiple times at close range in the head and body.
A forensic expert who examined the scene in the aftermath of the murder determined that at least 16 cartridges were fired from a minimum of two guns.
Two young boys riding their bikes found Mr McKeown's body.
The judge, Mr. Justice Fowler said the killing "had all the hallmarks of a carefully planned and brutal assassination."
He said he was "satisfied that the two shooters were O'Brien and Martin."
It was also heard that Mr McKeown was involved in a feud with a criminal organisation known as 'The firm'
Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know.
