Bail refused to McIlveen accused

Michael McIlveen died after being attacked in Ballymena

One of the teenagers accused of murdering a schoolboy has been refused bail after the High Court was told that he may have struck the fatal blow.

Michael McIlveen, 15, died after being attacked by a gang in Ballymena in May.

Mervyn Moon, 18, of Douglas Terrace in the town, is one of seven men and juveniles charged with murder.

A prosecution lawyer said he had told police how he struck the teenager with a baseball bat. Michael had been kicked and beaten during the sectarian attack.

She said four of the defendants had already been released on bail.

However, Mr Moon's application was being opposed because police believed he was one of the main offenders and, on his own admission, could potentially have struck the fatal blow.

A defence barrister said he could live at an address in Randalstown which would get over police fears about interference with witnesses, whom the prosecution had described as "young and vulnerable".

Refusing bail, Lord Justice Sheil said Mr Moon had admitted his involvement in what he described as "this tragic affair".