Police name murder victim as suspect held over possible linked church assault

Murdered: 56-year-old Stephen Brannigan

Detectives have named the man killed in Downpatrick at the weekend as 56-year-old Stephen Brannigan, as police continue to investigate a possible link between his death and a brutal bottle attack on a priest earlier the same day.

Mr Brannigan was found dead at a property in the Marian Park area of the town shortly before midday on Sunday, 10 August.

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.”

Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) detectives were granted a 36-hour court extension on Monday, 11 August, to continue questioning a 30-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.

Suspected link to church assault

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 in Downpatrick.

It is reported that a man entered the church and struck the priest on the head with a bottle before leaving. The victim was taken to hospital where he remains in a serious condition.

Detective Chief Inspector McBurney described it as:

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

Police believe the fatal incident in Marian Park and the church assault may be connected.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Commander, Superintendent Norman Haslett, previously appealed to anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage from the relevant areas to come forward, saying:

“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.”

Information appeal

Anyone with details is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 713 of 10/8/25 (for the murder) or 543 of 10/8/25 (for the assault).

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

Information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org.