Appeal to mark the anniversary of the 2002 murder of a man who was shot dead in front of his young daughter in County Down

Police have launched an appeal for information about the murder of a man who was shot dead in front of his young daughter 22 years ago.

Stephen Warnock, 35, was travelling with his daughter in the back seat when he was attacked in Newtownards, Co. Down, at around 11.30am on 13 September 2002.

A motorcyclist with a pillion passenger pulled up alongside the car before shots were fired at the vehicle, killing Mr Warnock.

Detectives from the PSNI's Legacy Investigation Branch (LIB) say they continue to investigate multiple motives for the “senseless murder”.

“Brutal and reckless act”

“Mr Warnock was driving his blue BMW along Circular Road with his young daughter in the back seat when he was forced to stop due to traffic,” said Detective Chief Inspector Byrne of the LIB.

“At this point, a motorcycle with a driver and pillion passenger drove next to the car and shots were fired at the car.

“Stephen suffered multiple gunshot wounds and tragically died at the scene. Fortunately, Stephen's daughter was unharmed.

“After the shooting, the motorcycle sped off towards Belfast, where it was found burnt out on Chelsea Street in east Belfast later that day.

“This was a brutal and ruthless attack on a defenceless man and we are investigating a number of possible motives for the murder.

“Today I appeal to anyone who may have been on or in the surrounding area of ​​Circular Road before or after the murder and who may have information to speak to police.”

“Senseless killing”

DCI Byrne urged those responsible to consider the “devastating impact” the murder had on Mr Warnock’s family.

“It has been 22 years since this senseless killing,” he said.

“I would ask anyone who was involved or who has heard accounts of what happened – either immediately afterward or over the years – to reflect on the devastating impact this has had on Stephen's family and to come forward to the police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact LIB investigators on 101 or email [email protected].

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.