Convicted murderer at large after failing to return from day release

A convicted murderer is unlawfully at large in Northern Ireland after failing to return to prison following a day release program. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) issued an appeal for information on Monday, September 14, 2026, stating that Gary Anderson, 29, did not return as required after being granted resettlement day release. Anderson was convicted alongside his brother, Sean Anderson, for the 2018 murder of Karol Kelly in Derry. Kelly, a 35-year-old father of five, was stabbed multiple times during the attack. In 2023, Gary Anderson was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 15 years before he could be considered for release. Sean Anderson received a minimum term of 17 years. The PSNI described Anderson as approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, of slim build, with brown hair. Officers have urged the public not to approach him directly but to contact police with any information. The appeal can be made by calling 101, quoting reference 555 of 140926, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Court records indicate the killing was a joint enterprise.