Stephen McCullagh Convicted of Murdering Pregnant Partner Natalie McNally
A jury at Belfast Crown Court has found Stephen McCullagh guilty of killing his partner, Natalie McNally. The verdict ends a five-week trial that examined events from December 18, 2022.
Verdict and sentence
The panel of twelve jurors reached a unanimous decision after about two hours of deliberation. McCullagh, 36, was convicted for the death of 32-year-old McNally, who was 15 weeks pregnant.
He was sentenced to life imprisonment. The judge said the minimum term will be set at a later date.
Incident and locations
The killing took place at McNally’s home in Silverwood Green, Lurgan, County Armagh. The date of the incident was the night of Sunday, December 18, 2022.
McCullagh is from Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, County Antrim. The trial was heard at Belfast Crown Court.
Trial evidence and defence
Prosecutors told jurors McCullagh gave a false alibi and repeatedly lied about his actions. They challenged a claim that he was live streaming on YouTube the night of the killing.
Defence lawyers denied he was the killer. They argued the evidence pointed to another person and highlighted an ex-boyfriend of the victim as casting doubt.
Jury instructions and legal points
The judge reminded jurors their role was to decide whether the prosecution proved guilt beyond reasonable doubt. He also warned them not to focus on people who were not defendants in the case.
Courtroom reaction
Family and friends of the victim reacted with audible emotion when the verdict was read. Many cried, hugged, and applauded as jurors left the courtroom.
Judge Patrick Kinney praised the family for their dignity. He also thanked jurors for their commitment and released them from future service because of the trial’s distressing nature.
Next steps
McCullagh denied the murder at trial and will be subject to the usual appeal and sentencing procedures. The court will set the minimum tariff for his life sentence at a later hearing.
The case, involving allegations that Stephen McCullagh murdered his pregnant partner Natalie McNally, drew significant public attention throughout the proceedings.
