-
Advertisement
Syrian conflict
WorldMiddle East

‘Marie Colvin was a dog, now she’s dead’: explosive documents detail how Syrian forces targeted famed war reporter with rocket

New court documents allege Syrian forces targeted veteran war correspondent Marie Colvin and then celebrated after they learned their rockets had killed her

Reading Time:3 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
Syria has denied that its forces targeted and killed Marie Colvin in 2012 to silence her reporting. File photo: AFP
The Washington Post

As the explosions grew closer, the reporters and activists working at a clandestine media centre in the Syrian city of Homs decided it was time to evacuate.

American reporter Marie Colvin and a British photographer were steps from the exit when a rocket hit, instantly killing them both.

The Syrian general who allegedly planned and executed the 2012 attack in retaliation for Colvin’s reporting congratulated his men with an impromptu party when he heard the news.

Advertisement

“Marie Colvin was a dog, and now she’s dead,” Major General Rafiq Shahadah allegedly told the group.

“Let the Americans help her now.”

Advertisement

These are among the dramatic details revealed in sworn documents unsealed Monday on the orders of US District Judge Amy Berman Jackson in a civil case against the Syrian government on behalf of Colvin’s sister and heirs.

Advertisement
Select Voice
Select Speed
1.00x