Natalie McNally Trial: Accused’s ‘Fake’ Livestream and Evidence Presented in Court
Belfast Crown Court continues to hear evidence in the trial of Stephen McCullagh, accused of murdering his pregnant girlfriend, Natalie McNally. Recent testimony and evidence presented suggest McCullagh attempted to create a false alibi through a pre-recorded livestream.
Prolonged Assault and Injuries
The court has heard that Natalie McNally, 15 weeks pregnant at the time of her death, endured a “prolonged assault” that included multiple stab wounds, strangulation, and severe head injuries. State pathologist Dr. James Lyness detailed dozens of injuries to her head, face, neck, chest, and limbs. Source The exact cause of death remains complex, with both neck compression and stab wounds potentially being fatal. Injuries to her hands suggest she may have attempted to defend herself.
The Livestream Alibi
Prosecutors allege that Stephen McCullagh, 36, of Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, attempted to establish an alibi by broadcasting a livestream on the night of December 18, 2022, the night Natalie McNally was killed. Source The livestream, purportedly showing McCullagh playing Grand Theft Auto although drinking alcohol, was initially presented as live. However, McCullagh later admitted to police that the stream was pre-recorded days prior. Source The prosecution contends that McCullagh used the livestream to disguise his movements and create the impression he remained at home while he allegedly traveled to and murdered McNally.
Details of the Livestream
The footage, lasting approximately 90 minutes, showed McCullagh wearing a Santa hat, consuming Guinness and Baileys, and making numerous exclamations and profanities. Source He repeatedly stated he was “not leaving the house tonight.” Source At one point, a poster for the James Bond film *No Time To Die* appeared briefly on screen.
WhatsApp Messages and 999 Call
WhatsApp messages exchanged between McCullagh and McNally in the hours leading up to her death were presented to the jury. Hours before the murder, McNally messaged about watching the World Cup final, and McCullagh replied, wishing him luck with his livestream. Source Messages sent the following day, which went unanswered, included an apology for breaking a promise not to drink alcohol during her pregnancy and expressions of concern for her well-being. Source McCullagh also sent messages to a friend, expressing worry about McNally’s lack of response and suggesting she might be experiencing a diabetes-related emergency.
Following McNally’s death, McCullagh made a 999 call on the night of December 19, 2022. Source
Evidence Presented in Court
In addition to the livestream footage and WhatsApp messages, a small black-handled knife found at the scene near McNally’s body was shown to the jury. Source A silver dog bowl and a sheet of paper containing information on diabetes, also found near the deceased, were presented as evidence. Source
The trial, expected to last around five weeks, continues before Mr. Justice Patrick Kinney. McCullagh denies the charge of murder.