Career
He was arrested on 25 February 2009 by British Police as a suspect in the murder of Graham McKenna on The Wirral on 10 January 2009. Graham McKenna was a former soldier, having served 22 years with the 22nd (Cheshire) Regiment. He was still involved with the military, holding the rank of Corporal.
He had taught Territorial Army recruits at 42 Brigade’s Regional Training Centre at Altcar, Formby, on the morning of his death.
They were repeatedly shanked in the abdomen but managed to stagger to nearby Speedwell Road. Both were taken to Arrowe Park hospital where Mr McKenna died.
Despite multiple stab wounds Michael survived. Although the Police had not yet released details of the conversation which took place during the incident, there seemed to be little doubt as to the identity of the attacker.
Finlay was also suspected of stabbing Graham"s son, Michael McKenna, age 14, a pupil at Ridgeway school in Prenton.
Both victims were attacked shortly after leaving their home to go to watch a football match at Goodison Park, the home of Everton Football club Father & son were season ticket holders. Following the murder, Finlay went on the run.
The hunt for Finlay received massive publicity on Thursday 12 February 2009, after an emotional and moving appeal for information made by McKenna"s widow was repeatedly broadcast on British Broadcasting Corporation Radio 5.
Gary Finlay appeared on United Kingdom"s "most wanted list" and on United Kingdom television news. The story was featured in the United Kingdom National newspapers and was also carried by international news agencies.