Fresh police appeal over ‘horrific and callous’ murder

Detectives investigating the murder of Robbie Lawlor in north Belfast nearly a week ago have made a further appeal for information, particularly around a car linked to the killing.

The 36-year-old victim, from Coolock in Dublin, was shot multiple times by a lone gunman outside a house at Etna Drive on Saturday 4 April.

Police know a white Volkswagen Scirocco, registration YLZ7052, found burned out in Kingston Court on the day of the murder was parked at Estoril Park a day earlier.

It had been stolen in the Republic of Ireland on 30 January.

The white VW car parked in Estoril Park the day before the murder. Credit: PSNI

PSNI Detective Chief Inspector Peter Montgomery said: “I am appealing to anyone who saw it or witnessed its movements between 31 March and Friday 3 April in Estoril Park until it was found burnt out to speak to me.

“Did you see anyone park it there or move it to Kingston Court?

“I would also appeal to any motorists or taxi drivers who were in the area at that time and have dash-cam footage to please bring it forward to police.

“I am still keen to hear from anyone who saw this car and its occupants either before 11.50am on Saturday 4 April or after the murder had taken place.

“I am also interested in speaking to anyone who was in the Etna Drive or Strathroy Park areas on Saturday 4 April and again, if any drivers or taxi drivers have dash-cam footage during those times, I would urge them to bring it police.”

DCI Montgomery added: “My investigation into this brutal killing is progressing and I would like to thank those who have come forward with information so far.

“The murder weapon has not yet been recovered.

“These dangerous people have no place in our society and need to be brought to justice for what they did.”

Information can be provided to police by calling 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, while footage can be uploaded on the Major Incident Public Portal.