Who is John Caldwell? Know about the PSNI detective shot in Omagh police shooting

Three persons were detained after a prominent police detective in the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) was shot several times while not on duty.

In Omagh in County Tyrone, John Caldwell was shot and is now battling for his life. He is widely known locally for directing investigations into high-profile sectarian killings, paramilitary groups, and organized criminal gangs.

Colleagues said he attempted to get away before fainting after being shot in front of his young kid while loading footballs into the trunk of his car.


Authorities claim that the republican group New IRA is the major subject of their inquiry and that the shooters may have gone across the border. According to assistant chief constable Mark McEwan, the shooters opened fire in a "crowded area where there [were] children and parents in the area."



At least two more vehicles have also been hit, Mr McEwan continued, underscoring once more how ruthless and careless this act was. A tiny, black automobile that was subsequently discovered torched on the outskirts of Omagh is thought to have been used by the gunmen to flee.

"I am shocked by the despicable shooting of an off-duty police officer in Omagh tonight," said UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Who is DCI John Caldwell?

In several high-profile investigations, including the 2011 slaying of his colleague Ronan Kerr by dissident republicans, John Caldwell served as the lead detective.

DCI Caldwell, a County Tyrone native with 26 years of law enforcement experience, frequently addresses news conferences during significant investigations. Many threats have been made against him in the past, according to BBC News NI. Moreover, he was the first lead investigator looking into Natalie McNally's murder in Lurgan.

FAQs:

1. Where was John Caldwell shot?
   Omagh, County Tyrone
2. When was John Caldwell shot?
   February 22, 2023, Wednesday