Wright killer found dead in cell

Billy Wright was murdered in the Maze Prison in December 1997

A member of an INLA gang which murdered LVF leader Billy Wright in the Maze Prison in 1997 has been found dead.

It is understood John Kenneway took his own life in his cell in Maghaberry Prison. He was pronounced dead at 1855 BST on Friday.

Last week, Kenneway was refused compassionate temporary release to attend the Christening of a grandchild.

The Prison Ombudsman has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The inmate's family, the police and the coroner have also been informed of the death.

"The Northern Ireland Prison Service expresses their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased," a prison service spokesperson said.

A public inquiry into Wright's murder began in Banbridge last month.

It was set up following an investigation by retired Canadian judge Peter Cory after Wright's father, David, claimed the murder was the result of collusion.

The LVF leader was shot dead by INLA prisoners who ambushed him inside the high-security prison.

Wright had got into a prison van to be taken to the visitors' area of the jail, when the INLA prisoners climbed over the roof of the H-block and into the prison yard.

Three INLA prisoners, including Kenneway, were later convicted of the killing.