Natalie McNally Murder Trial: Prosecution Claims Compelling Evidence Against Accused

The Belfast Crown Court is nearing the conclusion of the trial concerning the murder of 32-year-vintage Natalie McNally, who was 15 weeks pregnant at the time of her death. The prosecution has asserted that the evidence against Stephen McCullagh, 36, of Lisburn, County Antrim, is “compelling.” McCullagh denies the charge of murder.

Fabricated Alibi

Charles MacCreanor KC, representing the prosecution, highlighted that the defendant’s alibi had been proven to be a “complete fabrication.” McCullagh initially claimed he was engaged in a six-hour livestream on YouTube during the time of the murder, which occurred on December 18, 2022, at McNally’s home in Lurgan.

Pre-Recorded Livestream

Still, investigations revealed that the livestream was, in fact, pre-recorded four days prior to the murder and scheduled to play on his YouTube channel on the night in question [Irish Times]. The prosecution argues that McCullagh used this fabricated alibi to travel from Lisburn to Lurgan to commit the crime.

Deception and Changing Accounts

The prosecution detailed how McCullagh allegedly misled friends, the McNally family, and law enforcement officials, consistently maintaining the story about the livestream until cybercrime experts demonstrated its pre-recorded nature. Only after this evidence emerged did McCullagh provide a written statement claiming he had been drinking and fell asleep while the stream played [BBC News]. MacCreanor suggested this change in account was a result of being “caught out,” stating, “Why would you need a false alibi? Due to the fact that you murdered Natalie McNally.”

Relationship Context

The prosecution also presented evidence suggesting that McNally had been communicating with other men and expressing doubts about her relationship with McCullagh. It was revealed that McCullagh possessed the passcode to McNally’s phone.

Trial Continues

The defense is scheduled to present its closing arguments to the jury tomorrow. The case remains ongoing [Irish Times].

Background

Natalie McNally was found dead at her home in Lurgan on December 18, 2022. A post-mortem examination revealed she had suffered multiple stab wounds, severe beatings, facial fractures, and broken bones in her neck [Wikipedia]. Police found no signs of forced entry, indicating McNally likely knew her attacker.