Veteran Journalist Jim McDowell Passes Away
The veteran journalist Jim McDowell has died.
He served as the northern editor of the Sunday World for 25 years until his retirement in 2015.
McDowell, a Belfast native, faced death threats from both loyalist and republican groups throughout his decades-long career, during which he reported on sensitive and controversial issues, including paramilitary drug dealing.
In his 70s at the time of his passing, McDowell is survived by his wife Lindy, daughter Faye, and sons Jamie and Micah.
Long and Impactful Career
McDowell's journalism career spanned nearly 50 years, beginning at the News Letter.
He covered numerous significant and tragic events during the Troubles, such as Bloody Friday in Belfast in 1972, when 19 bombs detonated across the city, and the Milltown shootings in 1988, when loyalist Michael Stone attacked mourners at a funeral for IRA members killed in Gibraltar, killing three people with gunfire and grenades.
Personal Experiences and Challenges
McDowell also made headlines due to his own experiences. In 2009, he told the BBC about an incident in which he was assaulted in the center of Belfast.
"He was injured in the head, arms and legs, but did not need hospital treatment."
At the time, McDowell attributed the attack to drug dealers.
Retirement and Funeral Arrangements
After 25 years leading the Sunday World in Northern Ireland, McDowell retired in 2015.
A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, 2 May, at St George's Church of Ireland in Belfast.
