Stephen McCullagh Trial: Livestream Alibi Claimed to be Pre-Recorded

The trial of Stephen McCullagh, accused of murdering his pregnant girlfriend Natalie McNally, has heard evidence suggesting a livestream presented as an alibi was, in fact, pre-recorded. McCullagh, 36, denies murdering 32-year-old Natalie McNally in Lurgan, County Armagh, in December 2022. McNally was 15 weeks pregnant at the time of her death.

The Alibi and Forensic Evidence

McCullagh claimed he was live broadcasting himself playing computer games on December 18, 2022, the night Natalie McNally was allegedly killed. However, Detective Constable Matthews, a digital forensic analyst, testified that his examination of McCullagh’s computer revealed the six-hour broadcast was recorded on December 14, 2022, and saved as a video file. RTÉ reports that the file was then broadcast on McCullagh’s YouTube account, Votesaxon07, on December 18th.

Prosecution’s Case

The prosecution argues that McCullagh pre-recorded the livestream to create a false alibi, allowing him to travel to Natalie McNally’s home in Lurgan, commit the murder, and return without raising suspicion. They allege he disguised himself, took a bus to Lurgan, and walked to Ms. McNally’s house. RTÉ further states the prosecution contends the murder was “planned, calculated and premeditated, one which he (McCullagh) hoped to get away with.”

Details of the Crime

Natalie McNally was found dead at her home on Silverwood Green in Lurgan on December 19, 2022. A post-mortem examination revealed she died from compression of the neck, stab wounds to the neck, and blunt force trauma to the head. RTÉ reports Dr. James Lynas, the State Pathologist for Northern Ireland, testified that bruising and internal injuries were also present. The foetus she was carrying, approximately 15 weeks gestation, likely died as a result of the assault.

Investigation and Arrest

According to Wikipedia, police initially arrested a man at the scene but released him after determining he was not the perpetrator. The investigation subsequently focused on Stephen McCullagh, Ms. McNally’s former boyfriend, who initially claimed he was live-streaming at the time of the murder.

Trial Details

The trial, presided over by Judge Mr Justice Patrick Kinney, is expected to last around five weeks. A jury of six men and six women has been sworn in. RTÉ reports that the prosecution has presented evidence showing more than an hour of footage from the alleged livestream, depicting McCullagh playing video games and consuming alcoholic beverages.

Previous Statements and Allegations

The Standard reports that McCullagh previously told police Natalie McNally’s ex-partner had murdered her.

The trial continues.