YouTuber Accused of Murder Allegedly Staged Fake Livestream to Establish Alibi
A YouTuber is on trial in Belfast Crown Court accused of murdering his pregnant girlfriend, Natalie McNally, and allegedly attempted to create an alibi by staging a six-hour livestream of himself playing Grand Theft Auto. Stephen McCullagh, 36, denies the murder of Ms. McNally, who was 15 weeks pregnant with their son, on December 18, 2022.
Livestream Claimed to be Pre-Recorded
Prosecutors contend that the livestream was pre-recorded and broadcast while McCullagh traveled to Ms. McNally’s home in Lurgan, County Armagh, where he allegedly committed the murder. A police digital forensic analyst stated the footage was actually recorded four days prior to being “broadcast” on December 18, 2022. McCullagh initially claimed technical issues prevented live interaction with viewers during the stream, but later admitted in a written statement to police that the footage was not live.
Details of the Alleged Murder
The trial has heard evidence that Ms. McNally, 32, suffered a prolonged assault, including stab wounds to the neck, strangulation, and severe blows to the head. Prosecutors allege the murder was “planned, calculated and premeditated,” and that McCullagh attempted to conceal his involvement. Following the alleged murder, McCullagh reportedly made a 999 call (the UK equivalent of 911) the following night, which prosecutors claim was an attempt to mislead investigators.
Investigation and Timeline
According to reports, McCullagh appeared to be live broadcasting himself playing computer games at his home in County Antrim on December 18, 2022, coinciding with the time police believe Ms. McNally was killed. The prosecution alleges that McCullagh traveled by bus from Dunmurry to Lurgan during the livestream, committed the crime, and then returned home by taxi.
Trial Details
The trial, expected to last around five weeks, is being presided over by Mr. Justice Patrick Kinney. A jury of six men and six women has been sworn in. McCullagh was present in court on Thursday, February 26, 2026, wearing a grey T-shirt and jeans.