Man charged with murder of Stephen Brannigan and attempted murder of Priest in Downpatrick
- Love Ballymena
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Murdered: 56-year-old Stephen Brannigan
Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s (PSNI) Major Investigation Team have charged a man with the murder of 56-year-old Stephen Brannigan and the attempted murder of a priest, following two serious incidents in Downpatrick on Sunday, 10 August.
The 30-year-old man is due to appear before Newtownards Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, Wednesday, 13 August, charged with murder and attempted murder.
As is standard procedure, the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.
Victim named as Stephen Brannigan
Mr Brannigan was found dead at a property in the Marian Park area of Downpatrick shortly before midday on Sunday.
Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin said:
“Our thoughts remain with Mr Brannigan’s family and loved ones at this extremely distressing time.
“A murder investigation is underway, and I would reiterate our appeal for anyone with information to please come forward and speak to our detectives on 101.”
Suspected link to brutal church attack
Earlier that morning, at around 10.10am, police received a report that a priest had been seriously assaulted inside a church on St Patrick’s Avenue.
It is reported that a man entered the church and struck the priest on the head with a bottle before leaving. The priest remains in hospital in a serious condition.
Detective Chief Inspector McBurney previously described the assault as:
“A completely shocking and brutal attack” which “has left the priest with a serious head injury.”
Police believe the murder in Marian Park and the church attack may be connected.
Information appeal
Anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage is urged to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 713 of 10/8/25 (murder) or 543 of 10/8/25 (assault).
Reports can also be made via the PSNI’s online reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and www.crimestoppers-uk.org.