Murder cases involving the United States Military in Northern Ireland

Murder cases involving the US Army took place in Northern Ireland from 1942 - 1944. A total of 7 incidents resulted in the deaths of soldiers and civilians.

Between January 1942 and June 1944, over 300,000 members of the United States Military passed through Northern Ireland. For the most part, relations between the Americans and locals were good. However, over that time, members of the United States Military were responsible for 7 deaths.

Among the dead were 5 civilians, a British soldier, and an American soldier. In a total of 5 of the cases, drunkenness played a role as troops took leave and socialised in towns and villages.

The shooting of Albert Rodden in Limavady, Co. Londonderry

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17th April 2019

The shooting of Albert Rodden on 17th April 1942 was a tragic accident involving a US Army convoy and the mis-firing machine gun of Sergeant WV Clipsham.

The murder of Private Owen McLoughlin in Randalstown, Co. Antrim

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1st August 2020

The fatal stabbing of Private Owen McLoughlin of Motherwell, Scotland took place during a brawl following a dance in Randalstown, Co. Antrim.

The murder of Edward Clenaghan in Aghalee, Co. Antrim

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1st September 2019

The murder of Edward Clenaghan took place in September 1942 after he left to complain about the drunk and disorderly behaviour of two American soldiers.

The killing of Private William C. Jenkins in Antrim, Co. Antrim

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30th September 2019

On 30th September 1942, a racially motivated attack took place between segregated elements of the United States Army in Antrim, Co. Antrim.

The killing of Minnie Martin at Ballywillwill House, Annsborough, Co. Down

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4th October 2019

Private Lawrence McKenzie was found guilty of manslaughter following the killing of Minnie Martin in the gate lodge of Ballywillwill House, Co. Down.

The murder of Patricia Wylie in Killycolpy, Co. Tyrone

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25th September 2019

The village of Killycolpy, Co. Tyrone was the scene of the murder of Patricia Wylie on 25th September 1944. Readers may find details upsetting.

American troops committed other crimes such as vandalism and assault. They were also sometimes the victims of attacks from British service personnel. As Northern Ireland was the first place in Europe to host the United States Military, it led the way in how the United Kingdom would deal with later cases.

References
  1. Racial Tensions and US Military

United States Army