The latest murder victim in the INLA feud, Mr Francis Shannon (21), shot dead on Sunday, was to have gone on trial at Belfast Crown Court yesterday. When Mr Shannon was called to appear before Judge Anthony Hart, an RUC man reported "No appearance for Mr Shannon."
The Ardoyne man faced eight charges, including the hijacking of a car, taking two others and driving without insurance while disqualified, all last July. Mr Shannon, to be buried from his Velsheda Court home today, was shot dead after getting out of a car in Norfolk Way, Turf Lodge.
The INLA in Belfast admitted it shot Mr Shannon four times in the head and once in the leg before a group of children. The victim was released from prison just four weeks ago. He was wearing a wig and bullet proof vest when shot.
