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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Cathy Owen

Pensioner shot dead by crossbow at his Anglesey home was 'deliberately targeted'

A retired lecturer fatally shot with a crossbow bolt was "deliberately targeted", police have said.

Gerald Corrigan, 74, was near South Stack Road in a remote part of Holyhead, Anglesey, at about 12.35am on April 19 as he adjusted his satellite dish.

He died three weeks later in hospital with his family by his side.

The bolt passed through his upper body, narrowly missing his heart, and his right arm.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Kearney, of North Wales Police, issued an update to the murder inquiry after Mr Corrigan's funeral took place in Knutsford, Cheshire, on Monday.

Mr Kearney said: "Gerald was a decent retired pensioner who ought to have been able to enjoy his retirement in one of the safest parts of the United Kingdom.

"North Wales Police are committed to identifying the individual or individuals responsible for this senseless murder. There are over 50 officers and staff working on this investigation.

"As the investigation has progressed, all indications are that Gerald Corrigan has been deliberately targeted.

"The investigation team is making progress thanks to the assistance from our community. However, I believe that there are still key people within our community who can assist us with crucial information - please come forward and talk to us in total confidence."

The rural home of Gerald Corrigan near Holyhead where he was shot (Ian Cooper / North Wales Live)
The satellite dish which Gerald Corrigan was tending to when he was shot with a crossbow near South Stack Road at Holyhead, Anglesey. (Ian Cooper/North Wales Live)

An initial line of inquiry was thought to be that Mr Corrigan may have been accidentally shot by a lamper - rogue night-time hunters who use bright lights to target animals.

Mr Corrigan worked as a lecturer in photography and video in Lancashire before retiring to Anglesey more than 20 years ago. He had a keen interest in nature.

His family issued fresh tributes following the funeral service.

His partner, Marie Bailey, said: "It is impossible to express my deep sadness and shock at the horrific murder of Gerry. He was my best friend and my soul mate. All the time we have been together I have been proud to walk at his side and he stood beside me, always.

"His family and friends, colleagues and neighbours are all shocked and horrified at his senseless murder. We all loved and honoured him. I will treasure his memory for all the days of my life, although I would have preferred to treasure him not just his memory."

North Wales Police at the scene of the crossbow attack at South Stack Road on the outskirts of Holyhead, Anglesey. (Hadyn Iball)
North Wales Police at the scene of the crossbow attack at South Stack Road on the outskirts of Holyhead, Anglesey (Hadyn Iball)

His daughter Fiona Corrigan said: "My dad was a very kind and funny man. He taught me an appreciation of art and nature. There are so many happy moments we shared and I will miss him too much to say."

Mr Corrigan's son, Neale, said: "My father was a wonderful man who cared so much for people.

"My dad believed in the good in people and in life, and in the importance of family, friendship and love. He taught me that we can change, that to forgive brings freedom, and that we should believe in the best in people as no-one is perfect. I will miss my father who has been taken from us."

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