The murder of Darren Bradshaw, a constable in the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC), is a significant event in the history of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Bradshaw was killed on May 9, 1997, at the age of 24. He was shot by the Irish National Liberation Army (INLA), a paramilitary group.

### Background

Darren Bradshaw was a young officer in the RUC, the police force that operated in Northern Ireland and was often targeted by republican paramilitary groups during the Troubles. The RUC was seen by many nationalists and republicans as a symbol of British rule, leading to numerous attacks on its members.

### The Murder

On the night of May 9, 1997, Darren Bradshaw was off-duty and socializing at the Parliament Bar in Belfast, which was known to be frequented by members of the LGBT community. The bar was considered a safe space, and it was unusual for political violence to occur there.

Two INLA gunmen entered the bar and, after identifying Bradshaw as a member of the RUC, opened fire. He was shot multiple times and died from his injuries. The attack shocked and horrified the local community, not only because of the brutality of the murder but also due to its occurrence in what was considered a safe environment.

### Aftermath

The murder of Darren Bradshaw was condemned by politicians and community leaders across the spectrum. It highlighted the pervasive danger faced by members of the RUC and underscored the indiscriminate nature of paramilitary violence. The attack also brought attention to the specific vulnerability of LGBT individuals during the Troubles, as Darren Bradshaw was believed to be gay.

The INLA claimed responsibility for the murder, stating it was part of their ongoing campaign against British security forces in Northern Ireland. The group had been responsible for numerous attacks during the Troubles, and their actions were widely denounced.

### Investigation and Legacy

Despite various investigations, bringing the perpetrators to justice proved difficult. The murder of Darren Bradshaw remains a poignant reminder of the brutal and complex nature of the Troubles. His death is often remembered in discussions about the impact of the conflict on the RUC and the broader community in Northern Ireland.

The killing also serves as a stark illustration of the intersection of sectarian violence and the struggles faced by the LGBT community during a turbulent period in Northern Irish history. Darren Bradshaw’s life and untimely death continue to be a symbol of the need for peace, tolerance, and understanding in a region that has endured significant strife.