Natalie McNally Murder Trial: Key Developments and Timeline

The trial of Stephen McCullagh, accused of the murder of Natalie McNally in Lurgan, Northern Ireland, in December 2022, is underway. The case has garnered significant attention due to the circumstances surrounding McNally’s death and allegations of a fabricated alibi. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key developments as of February 23, 2026.

The Crime and Initial Investigation

On December 18, 2022, 32-year-old Natalie McNally was found stabbed to death at her home in Silverwood Green, Lurgan. She was 15 weeks pregnant at the time of her death. Initial investigations revealed McNally had been severely beaten, suffering stab wounds, facial fractures, and broken bones in her neck. Police found no signs of forced entry, suggesting the victim knew her attacker.

A 32-year-old man was initially arrested but later released.

Stephen McCullagh and the Alleged False Alibi

Stephen McCullagh, 36, of Woodland Gardens, Lisburn, has been charged with McNally’s murder but denies the charge. He initially claimed to have been livestreaming on his YouTube channel during the time of the murder, between 8:50 PM and 9:30 PM on December 18, 2022.

However, the prosecution alleges this was a false alibi. PSNI cybercrime experts determined the footage had been pre-recorded and uploaded on the night of the murder.

The 999 Call and Prosecution Claims

The prosecution played a 999 call made by McCullagh on December 19, 2022, to the jury. In the ten-minute call, McCullagh is heard sobbing and telling the operator that McNally was pregnant, “cold,” and that there was “blood everywhere.” He urged emergency services to arrive quickly.

The prosecution argues that this 999 call was “an act,” part of a plan to commit the murder and evade capture. They claim McCullagh traveled from Lisburn to Lurgan by public transport and on foot while pretending to livestream, changing his clothes and appearance to avoid detection.

Evidence Presented in Court

The court has heard that Natalie McNally suffered three stab wounds to her neck, compression of her neck – suggesting fingertip grasping – and at least five heavy blows to the head, causing significant blunt force trauma.

The prosecution has described the murder as “planned, calculated, and premeditated.”

Trial Status

As of February 23, 2026, the trial is ongoing at Belfast Crown Court.