PSNI renew appeal ahead of fourth anniversary of barbaric McCauley assault

Detective Chief Inspector Nick McCaw said: "For the last four years the McCauley family have lived with the terrible and tragic consequences of the vicious attack on their son - an attack that has changed their lives completely.

"As a parent myself I can't imagine the pain they have suffered and continue to suffer knowing that those responsible have not been brought to justice.

"Paul was attending a summer BBQ at the rear of a house in Chapel Road. At 3.20am only three people remained.

"A group of up to 15 people came from out of the bushes and attacked Paul and two of his friends. After the assault the group made off in the direction of Irish Street.

"At that stage Paul was in a critical condition and had to be resuscitated at the scene by paramedics and again in hospital.

"Four years on and Paul remains in a minimally responsive state - he can't move or communicate with his loved ones.

"One person is currently serving a prison sentence in relation to the attack however this investigation remains open.

"Someone out there knows what happened the night Paul McCauley and his friends were attacked. Someone out there knows who else was involved.

"The McCauley family deserve to know the truth about that night. I am directly appealing to people in the Irish Street, Clooney, Lincoln Courts, and Fountain areas.

"I know there are people in those communities who can identify Paul's attackers. I am asking you to examine your conscience and do the right thing.

"We have a dedicated team of detectives who are actively pursuing any and all leads that will bring justice for Paul and for his family and friends. If you have any information now is the time to tell us."

The telephone number to ring is 0845 600 8000. Alternatively information can be passed on anonymously on freephone 0800 555 111.

Neighbourhood Officers will be carrying out a leafet drop in the Waterside area on Friday as part of our efforts to progress this investigation.