‘Jealousy’ led to gun attack

Man denies kill bid on ex-mistress’ partner

A MAN allegedly tried to kill the new partner of his ex-mistress in a gun attack fuelled by “jealousy” over their relationship, the High Court heard yesterday.

Prosecutors said shots were fired at the victim after a car collided with his vehicle in the Sevenoaks area of Derry.

Robert Gillespie denies charges of attempted murder, possession of a shotgun and motoring offences over the incident in July.

The 50-year-old, of Tamneymore Park in the city, faces further counts of having and throwing a petrol bomb, arson endangering life, intimidation and criminal damage related to an incident the previous month. He was granted bail by Mr Justice Colton but banned from contacting the alleged victim or his former mistress.

It is claimed that on July 24 a motorist with his face covered and wearing sunglasses drove a Peugeot into the victim’s vehicle.

The driver got out carrying an apparent sawn-off shotgun, pointed and fired at the target who managed to speed off.

The court heard a second shot was fired at him while both cars were travelling.

Defence barrister Joe Brolly said Gillespie has retained his family’s full support since ending the affair and confessing to his wife earlier this year.

He added: “This is going to be a very hotly disputed trial.”

HIGH COURT YESTERDAY