Overnight road checks in crossbow murder probe after retired Lancashire lecturer, 74, dies

Twenty-five people have been spoken to in an overnight road check as detectives continue to investigate the murder of a retired lecturer shot with a crossbow bolt.
Gerald Corrigan who was killed by a crossbow in Anglesey - He is believed to have been a lecturer at Blackpool College of Art.Gerald Corrigan who was killed by a crossbow in Anglesey - He is believed to have been a lecturer at Blackpool College of Art.
Gerald Corrigan who was killed by a crossbow in Anglesey - He is believed to have been a lecturer at Blackpool College of Art.

Twenty-five people have been spoken to in an overnight road check as detectives continue to investigate the murder of a retired lecturer shot with a crossbow bolt.

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

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The bolt passed through his upper body, narrowly missing his heart, and his right arm. He died in hospital from his injuries on May 11 with his family by his side.

Vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians travelling along South Stack Road, near to the junction of Porthdafarch Road and Plas Road, were stopped between 10pm on Thursday and 4am on Friday.

A review of the information collected will take place, while an underwater search team has carried out a search of the coast near the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Kearney, of North Wales Police, said: "It is important for us to capture witnesses and people who may have information to assist our inquiry.

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"We are seeking to establish any information relating to the victim - vehicles or people seen in the area at the relevant time that might explain how Gerald came to sustain the injuries which then led to his death."

"I am very grateful to the public for their help and support to date.

"However the answer to this crime lies with one or two key members of the public who know or have suspicions regarding the identity of the person or people involved. "

He added: "Gerald Corrigan was 74 years of age - a pensioner who lived in a remote and beautiful location.

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"He died a cruel and slow death after struggling for survival for three weeks.

"This bank holiday weekend he should have been with his family and friends enjoying his retirement.

"We need your help. Come forward. Speak to me and my team in total confidence."

Mr Corrigan's family, including his partner Marie and his two children Neale and Fiona, have said they could not think of anyone who would have wanted to kill him.

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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.

One line of inquiry is 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.

Anyone who has any information should contact police on 101 quoting Operation Blue Fulgent, or visit the North Wales Police appeal site at www.mipp.police.uk.