Detectives investigating the attempted murder of a taxi driver in west Belfast have released CCTV footage of a man they wish to question, as part of a renewed appeal backed by a £20,000 reward from the charity Crimestoppers. According to BBC News, Sean O'Reilly, 49, was shot twice while sitting in his vehicle in the Bell Steel Manor area on 23 February 2025. He survived the attack but required surgery to remove a bullet.
Detective Inspector Jack Kelly of the Police Service of Northern Ireland's major investigation team characterised the shooting as a deliberate act of violence.
This attack, in which a number of shots were fired, was a targeted and cold-blooded attempt to take a man's life,he stated. He emphasised that the incident occurred in a populated area during daylight hours, placing innocent bystanders at serious risk of harm.
Such shocking, premeditated violence has absolutely no place in today's society, and we remain determined in our efforts to bring those responsible to justice,Det Insp Kelly added.
We are releasing footage of a man whom we're keen to speak with, as we believe he may be able to help with our investigation. If you recognise him, please get in touch.
According to police records, two suspects approached on foot via a path between Glenwood and Laurelbank before fleeing through Glasvey toward Gardenmore Road. Items seized on 27 February 2025 included a high-visibility jacket and dark baseball cap, which underwent forensic testing.
The shooting has been reported as linked to a fallout involving Óglaigh na hÉireann, with O'Reilly associated with the Republican Network for Unity. Police initially described his condition as critical but stable when he was admitted to hospital on 23 February 2025.
What developments have occurred in the investigation?
A 50-year-old man was arrested in May 2025 in connection with O'Reilly's attempted murder and two Belfast murders, with the arrest reported again in October 2026. A Belfast court refused bail to Hugh Black, who is charged with O'Reilly's attempted murder and the murder of Danny McClean. Black denies involvement in the offences.
In court proceedings, prosecutors alleged Black acted as a lookout, citing CCTV evidence, though the defence argued the evidence was circumstantial. The case has significant implications for understanding the network of violence affecting the west Belfast community.
What happens next?
The court adjourned Black's case to 29 April 2026 and required the prosecution to provide an investigation timeline. Police continue to appeal for information from members of the public who may recognise the man in the released CCTV footage or who have other details relevant to the investigation.
