Man held in connection with 1974 murder

on 17/09/2012 18:01:53

A man was arrested today for questioning about a murder in Belfast 38 years ago.

Police said the man, aged 71, was detained in Newtownards, Co Down, and interviewed about the shooting of Ellen McDowell, 21.

She was shot in the head as she walked with her boyfriend in the city's Shankill area on April 6, 1974.

Ms McDowell, from Glenvarna Drive, Glengormley, Co Antrim, had just left a club when a car pulled up at the corner of Loftus Street and Beresford Street, and a single shot was fired.

Her boyfriend, who escaped unhurt, was believed to have been the intended victim of the attack which was apparently linked to a UVF paramilitary feud.

Police said the man arrested today is also being questioned about other offences.