Barristers for nine defendants charged in the murder of journalist Lyra McKee confirmed at Belfast Crown Court that none of their clients will give evidence.

McKee, 29, was shot dead while observing rioting in the Creggan area of Derry in April 2019. The New IRA admitted responsibility for her death.

Peter Cavanagh, 37, of Mary Street in Derry; Jordan Devine, 25, of Bishop Street; and Paul McIntyre, 58, of Kells Walk face murder charges. Six other Derry men face charges including rioting and throwing a petrol bomb: Joseph Barr, 37, of Sandringham Drive; Jude McCrory, 28, of Gartan Square; Joseph Anthony Campbell, 25, of Goshaden Cottages; Patrick Anthony Gallagher, 33, of John Field Place; Kieran George McCool, 57, of Ballymagowan Gardens; and Christopher Joseph Gillen, 45, of Balbane Pass.

All nine defendants deny the charges. One other defendant, William Patrick Elliott, 58, formerly of Ballymagowan Gardens, died last year.

Mrs Justice Smyth addressed the defence barristers on Wednesday and noted that the court may draw inferences from any failure to give evidence. She asked each barrister if their client wished to testify. All responded no.

The judge stated the trial would proceed to final submissions. The case resumes on 25 March. Last month she dismissed a defence application that there was no case to answer.