Shotgun attack victim 'facing death threats'

A woman injured in a shotgun attack on her home in the North is facing death threats, she said today.

Martine Benson, 32, suffered face and body cuts when the living room window of her flat on the outskirts of west Belfast was blasted.

She was sharing a Chinese takeaway with three girlfriends when a gunman opened fire just after 11pm on Monday.

And the mother of four, whose partner is in custody accused over a plot to kidnap a Belfast jeweller, revealed a menacing message was left for her and another woman.

She said: “There was a death letter posted through the door.

“It said the two girls are getting it next time.”

Ms Benson had gone to switch off a light when a single shot shattered the property on Good Shepherd Court in the Poleglass district.

“It blew my living room to pieces,” she said.

“I’ve got cuts and bruises all over my body, and the smoke was everywhere.

“It was aimed at myself; I’m lucky I’m not dead.

“This is affecting my life, and my nerves.”

Her partner, Patrick Watson, 34, is remanded in custody charged with the attempted jewellery raid last year.

Ms Benson’s children are understood to have been staying with relatives when the shooting happened. None of the other women were hurt.

But she was left surveying the destruction caused by the attack.

“The amount of damage a shotgun can do to a living room is unbelievable,” she added.

Police have ruled out any sectarian or paramilitary motive for the attack.

Angela Nelson, a Sinn Féin Councillor for the area, hit out at those behind the attack.

After visiting Ms Benson she said: “I unreservedly condemn this attack whatever the motivation of those involved.

“The women who were in the house at the time have been severely traumatised by the incident.

“Shooting into a home recklessly endangered not only the occupants but the entire local community.”