Teenager sentenced to 6 years over killing of Gerard Quinn

By Maria McCann

An 18 year old man has been handed a 6 year prison sentence for killing Gerard Quinn in Derry Londonderry.

It's after he pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of the 24 year old in a garden outside a house last year.

The father of one was stabbed in the neck with a bottle.

His twin brother was also injured in the assault.

Detective Chief Inspector Michael Harvey, from PSNI’s Serious Crime Branch, said: “Our thoughts today are very much with the Quinn family who are still coming to terms with the loss of their loved one.

“Gerard was a beloved son and brother and a doting father to his 3 year old daughter. While I hope today’s sentencing goes some way to bringing them some closure, they will still face a lifetime without their loved one – a life sentence.

“And let’s not forget that at only 24 years of age, Gerard Quinn was denied a future with his family and his daughter, not to mention all of the other important life events he will now not get to experience.

"Police received a report shortly before 10.30pm on May 21st last year that Gerard had been assaulted. He was taken to hospital where, sadly, he later died."

DCI Harvey continued: “Shortly before 10.30pm an altercation occurred between Gerard’s twin brother Michael and another male outside an address in Milldale Crescent where the defendant had been socialising. An argument soon escalated into a physical fight which spiralled to involve Gerard and the defendant, who had armed himself with an empty bottle of alcohol.

“He stabbed the father-of-one in the neck and tragically Gerard died from these injuries. Now a small child faces a lifetime without her father.

“Gerard’s twin brother also sustained minor injuries. And although Michael lived, he now has a lifetime dealing with the psychological scars of the night his twin brother was killed.

“I hope today’s sentence acts as a deterrent to others who may think about getting involved in violence. The consequences are plain to see.”

“I would like to acknowledge the dignity the Quinn family has shown throughout this investigation and would thank those members of the community who came forward and provided us with information and assistance.”

“Finally I would like to thank all the first responders and hospital staff who fought to save Gerard and my investigative team for their commitment and professionalism throughout this inquiry.”