Suspected Connected Homicide and Assault on Priest in Downpatrick, PSNI Investigating
In the peaceful town of Co Down, shockwaves were felt as two separate incidents of violence unfolded on Sunday, August 10, 2025. The tragic loss of life of Stephen Brannigan, a 56-year-old painter and father-of-two, and the serious assault on Canon John Murray, a highly respected local priest, have left the community in mourning.
Mr. Brannigan was found dead in the Marian Park area at about noon, while Canon Murray was attacked in St Patrick's Church earlier in the day. The police received a report of Mr. Brannigan's death as they were investigating the assault on Canon Murray.
The family of Stephen Brannigan paid tribute to him, describing him as "our beloved dad, grandad, son, and brother." They extended their prayers and deep concern for Canon Murray. The Brannigan family and the wider community hold Canon Murray in the highest regard.
SDLP councillor Conor Galbraith described Mr. Brannigan as a "painter and decorator" who was always known as "a quiet lad up in the Marian Park area, always willing to help out whenever the neighbors needed it." The victim's willingness to help was a trait that endeared him to many.
Canon Murray was attacked in the sacristy of the church and suffered serious head injuries, including broken bones in his hand and defensive injuries. Despite these awful injuries, he is now in a non-critical condition. Bishop Alan McGuckian stated that Canon Murray had been beaten around the head and there was a lot of blood.
A 30-year-old man, Hugh Malone, has been charged with the murder of Stephen Brannigan and the attempted murder of Canon John Murray. He appeared in court and was remanded in custody. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) suspects that the two incidents may be connected.
In response to these events, the town of Downpatrick has seen an increased police presence, with Supt Norman Haslett, the District Commander for Newry, Mourne and Down, announcing an increased police presence in the area over the coming days.
A Mass is due to be celebrated in Downpatrick on Tuesday morning to support the Brannigan family and Canon Murray. The family thanked people for their support following the "shock, pain, and total heartbreak" at Mr. Brannigan's killing. Detective Chief Inspector Gary Robinson stated that one line of inquiry is that the two incidents may be connected.
As the investigation continues, the community of Downpatrick stands united in grief and support for the families affected by these tragic events.
[1] PSNI investigating double attack in Downpatrick [2] Downpatrick community in shock after double attack [3] Man charged with murder and attempted murder in Downpatrick [4] Hugh Malone appears in court over Downpatrick attacks [5] Community rallies around Brannigan and Murray families
['Despite the ongoing investigation into the double attack in Downpatrick, the local community is equally concerned about both general-news events – the murder of Stephen Brannigan and the serious assault on Canon John Murray – as they are about the recent crime-and-justice occurrences.']
['In light of these events, the local political landscape may experience shifts, as the tragic loss of life and assault on respected figures like Stephen Brannigan and Canon Murray could become prominent topics of discussion in politics, potentially leading to calls for increased safety measures in the town.']
