Viable Explosive Device Discovered at Derry Hotel During Halloween Celebrations

Derry Hotel Evacuated After Viable Postal Device Triggers Controlled Explosion

A suspicious postal package delivered to a hotel in Ebrington Square, Derry, contained a viable explosive device, prompting a major security alert, the PSNI confirmed. The incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon at approximately 3.20pm, disrupting a Halloween fun fair that had been taking place in the area. Army ammunition technical officers attended the scene in the Waterside area of the city and carried out a controlled explosion on the device before removing its remnants for forensic examination.

Evacuations and Public Safety Operation at Ebrington Square

The public safety operation lasted from yesterday afternoon until close to midnight. Police evacuated the hotel premises alongside staff from a number of neighbouring properties. Area Commander of Derry City & Strabane, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney, thanked the local community for their patience and cooperation while officers worked to keep disruption to an absolute minimum.

Police condemned the incident as a reckless and targeted attack that caused significant disruption and distress. I can confirm this was a viable postal device that was sent to a hotel in Ebrington, Kearney stated, noting that the investigation remains at an early stage. We are keeping an open mind as to who is responsible, and we are working through a number of lines of enquiry, one of which, at this time, is that dissident republicans may be responsible.

Viable Explosive Device Discovered at Derry Hotel During Halloween Celebrations — Photo: The Journal

Political Condemnation and Impact on Halloween Celebrations

Local leaders swiftly denounced the security threat as families and tourists gathered for the city’s Halloween festivities. Stormont’s Justice Minister Naomi Long described the act as shameful and dangerous. Long praised the emergency response:

“I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms; it is abhorrent to think a viable device has been placed in the vicinity of families and young people celebrating Halloween,” she said. “The professionalism and courage of the police stands in stark contrast to those intent on bringing fear and disruption to our streets.”

Local SDLP MP Colum Eastwood highlighted the stark contrast between the community spirit and the attack, stating that targeting a hotel near an active funfair during Halloween celebrations was despicable. DUP MLA for Foyle Julie Middleton similarly characterized the placement of the device as deplorable and deeply disturbing, emphasizing that those responsible hold no regard for human life or local prosperity.

Police have condemned what they described as a 'reckless and targeted attack'. Photograph: Liam McBurney/PA Wire — Photo: The Irish Times

Police have appealed for anyone with information—no matter how insignificant it may seem—to contact investigators directly or submit tips anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers as forensic examinations continue.

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