Downpatrick: murder inquiry launched after death of man which may be linked to serious assault on priest in church
A murder inquiry has been launched following the death of a man in Downpatrick with police investigating a possible link to a serious assault on a priest in the town also on Sunday.
Newry, Mourne and Down, District Commander Superintendent Norman Haslett said: “Police attended an address in the Marian Park area following a report of a deceased man at approximately 12pm on Sunday afternoon, 10th August.
“A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder, and remains in police custody assisting with enquiries.
“Enquiries are at an early stage and, at this time, we suspect this may be connected to a serious assault in the St Patrick's Avenue area of Downpatrick on Sunday.
“I am appealing to anyone who believes they may have information which could assist us with our investigation to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 713 of 10/8/25.”
It was reported to police at around 10.10am that a man had walked into the church on St Patrick’s Avenue and hit a priest on his head with a bottle before leaving. The victim was taken to hospital for treatment of head injury, where he remains in a serious condition.
In a statement on Monday, Downpatrick Family Of Parishes said: “Canon Murray continues to receive exceptional care. He is stable and comfortable.
“St Patrick's Church and grounds remain closed.”
In an appeal for information, Detective Chief Inspector McBurney said: “This was a completely shocking and brutal attack and has left the priest with a serious head injury.
“Our enquiries are ongoing into this incident, and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed the assault, or has any information to contact Police on 101 and quoting reference 543 of 10/08/25.”
You can also report online at https://www.psni.police.uk/report or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.org/ .
Condemning the assault, SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “This is a disgraceful attack on an elderly priest which has left him in a serious condition in hospital. For this to happen in the church is particularly disgusting and I have spoken to many members of the community who are shocked and upset that this has taken place.
“My thoughts are with the priest and others impacted by this attack. I hope that he makes a quick recovery and that the person responsible is apprehended.”
Meanwhile, SDLP Downpatrick Councillor Conor Galbraith has been to the scene of the incident in the Marian Park area.
Cllr Galbraith said: “This is a very difficult day for people in Downpatrick after these two incidents and I have visited the Marian Park area to show my support to those affected.
“This is an ongoing situation and I would ask people to give police time and space to carry out their investigations. People locally are devastated that this has happened on their doorsteps.”