Natalie McNally Trial: Key Developments and Testimony

The trial of Stephen McCullagh, accused of the murder of his pregnant partner Natalie McNally, continues to unfold at Belfast Crown Court, revealing a complex picture of the events leading up to and following her death. The case has garnered significant public attention, particularly concerning the accused’s behavior in the aftermath of the tragedy.

The Crime and Initial Investigation

On December 18, 2022, Natalie McNally, 32, was fatally stabbed at her home in Lurgan, County Armagh. She was 15 weeks pregnant at the time. Stephen McCullagh, 36, was initially arrested but released after being ruled out as a suspect. Killing of Natalie McNally – Wikipedia He was later charged with her murder after initially claiming he was live-streaming on YouTube during the time of the killing. Killing of Natalie McNally – Wikipedia

Police found no signs of forced entry, suggesting McNally knew her attacker. Killing of Natalie McNally – Wikipedia A post-mortem examination revealed multiple stab wounds, severe bruising, facial fractures, and broken bones in her neck. Killing of Natalie McNally – Wikipedia

McCullagh’s Presence at the Wake

A central aspect of the trial has been the testimony regarding McCullagh’s presence at Natalie McNally’s wake. The court heard that McCullagh was welcomed into the McNally family home on Christmas Day 2022, the day before the funeral. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake

Bernadette McNally, Natalie’s mother, testified that McCullagh arrived dressed in the suit he wore to Natalie’s birthday and asked permission to attend. She described being “devastated” and concerned for him. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake She confirmed that McCullagh was left alone with the coffin for approximately 15-20 minutes, stating she did not know how this came about. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake

Noel McNally, Natalie’s father, explained that the family believed McCullagh was no longer a suspect and therefore felt it was appropriate for him to be at their home. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake He described McCullagh as “upset” and said many people were offering him hugs and comfort. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake

Further Testimony and Evidence

McCullagh reportedly told Bernadette McNally he did not want to attend the funeral, stating he didn’t want to be recognized. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake He also expressed concern about losing his job at The Belfast Telegraph simply for having been arrested. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake

The jury has also heard evidence regarding McCullagh’s interactions with the McNally family after the murder. He visited the family home “at least three times” in January 2023 and showed Bernadette McNally an engagement ring. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake He also showed the family an image generated from photographs of himself and Natalie, depicting what their unborn son, Dean, might have looked like. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake

McCullagh also spoke about an “abusive” ex-boyfriend who he claimed had “harassed” Natalie. Murder accused spent time with Natalie McNally’s body while ‘distraught’ at wake

The trial continues, with further evidence expected to be presented to the jury.