The Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery is issuing an appeal for information as part of the investigation into the death of Margaret ‘Ruby’ Johnston.
At approximately 4.20pm on Saturday 5 February 1972 Ruby boarded an Ulsterbus (Service No 56) which was the regular Newtownhamilton bus service. Ruby sat in the first front seat opposite the driver.
At approximately 4.30pm the bus travelled along the Friary Road (also known as Armagh Ring Road) and slowed at the junction with Lower Irish Street, intending to turn right. It then came under attack from a crowd of approximately 60 who had gathered. The crowd began to throw stones at the bus, smashing windows. As they drew closer to the bus, two petrol bombs were thrown at it. One smashed through the front window and exploded in the aisle. The second was also thrown through the front window where Ruby was sitting and it exploded, engulfing her in flames.
Ruby sustained significant injuries at the time of the incident and was transported to Armagh City Hospital. Ruby died of her injuries on Tuesday 28 March 1972.
The Commission is appealing to anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward to assist the investigation and help provide answers to Ruby’s family.