Murder inquiry in Downpatrick after priest seriously injured in brutal church attack

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s (PSNI) Major Investigation Team have launched a murder inquiry following the death of a man in Downpatrick, which is suspected to be linked to a serious assault on a priest earlier the same day.

Police were called to an address in the Marian Park area at around midday on Sunday, 10 August, where a man was found dead.

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.”

The earlier incident, which police are investigating as a possible related offence, involved a brutal attack on a priest inside a church on St Patrick’s Avenue.

At around 10.10am on Sunday, a man reportedly entered the church and struck the priest on the head with a bottle before leaving the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector McBurney described it as:

“A completely shocking and brutal attack” which “has left the priest with a serious head injury.”

The victim remains in hospital in a serious condition.

DCI McBurney added:

“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.”

Police have urged anyone with relevant information, CCTV or dashcam footage from the Marian Park or St Patrick’s Avenue areas to come forward.

Reports can also be made using the PSNI’s online reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.