Lyra McKee killing: police release woman, 57, arrested in connection with journalist's death in Londonderry

Lyra McKee pictured in a recent photo before her death on Thursday (Picture: AFP/Getty Images)

A 57-year-old woman arrested in connection with the killing of journalist Lyra McKee in Londonderry has been released unconditionally.

Ms McKee, 29, died as a result of injuries sustained when she was shot on the Creggan estate on April 18.

Detectives from the PSNI Major Investigation Team continue to appeal for help from the local community in Creggan or anyone with information.

An Irish Republican Army (IRA) splinter group had earlier said one of its "volunteers" killed Ms McKee.

In a statement given to The Irish News using a recognised code word, the group offered "full and sincere apologies" to her family and friends.

People signing a book of condolence after a vigil at Belfast City Hall in memory of murdered journalist Lyra McKee (PA)

Two teenage men initially arrested by detectives investigating the murder were later released without charge.

The New IRA is an amalgam of armed groups opposed to the peace process and it recently claimed responsibility for parcel bombs sent to London and Glasgow in March.

Police believe the violence was orchestrated in response to an earlier search by officers aimed at averting imminent trouble associated with this week's anniversary of the Easter Rising.

The Government has rejected apologies for the killing of Ms McKee, saying her murder was "no accident".

Police officers inspect the scene where the 29-year-old journalist Lyra McKee was shot dead, in Londonderry, Northern Ireland (REUTERS)

Speaking in the House of Commons, Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley said: "To those responsible for this act of terrorism, we say we have heard your excuses and your hollow apologies. No one buys it.

"This was no accident. There is nothing that can justify this murderous act and you are being called out for what you really are."

Ms Bradley said the "voices of peace" are "louder than those who peddle hate and division in a city with so much to offer."

The New IRA's admission comes as police in Northern Ireland say the investigation into the killing is continuing at a "rapid pace".

Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy said more than 140 people had contacted officers with information, adding: "This was an attack on the community. Lyra, tragically, was a random victim and I need the public to continue to support us.

"Many witnesses have contacted us to give us information that has been provided to them.

"More than 140 people have contacted us via our MIPP (Major Incident Public Portal) with messages, including mobile phone footage."