Full Breakdown
Trial of Stephen McCullagh for the Murder of Natalie McNally
3/14/2026, 2:58:10 PM
Overview of the Case
The murder trial of Stephen McCullagh, 36, who is accused of killing his pregnant partner, Natalie McNally, 32, is currently underway at Belfast Crown Court. McNally was 15 weeks pregnant when she was found dead in her home in Lurgan on December 18, 2022. McCullagh has denied the charges against him.
Key Evidence Presented
During the trial, the jury has been presented with a series of text messages exchanged between McNally and three men, including McCullagh, in the months leading up to her death. These messages reveal that McNally was contemplating her relationship with McCullagh. In a message dated December 11, 2022, she indicated to one man, referred to as Male C, that she was considering breaking up with McCullagh but did not want to do so before Christmas. She expressed a desire for independence and mentioned feeling uneasy about the relationship.
On December 16, just two days before her death, McNally described herself as "single but still pregnant" and expressed excitement about becoming a mother. The messages also included discussions about her pregnancy and her family's happiness regarding the news.
Actions of Stephen McCullagh
On the day of McNally's death, searches were conducted on McCullagh's computer for bus and train timetables between Lurgan and surrounding areas. Additionally, an audio recording lasting 39 minutes was found on McCullagh's phone, made in January 2023 at McNally's family home shortly after her death. This recording included conversations among McNally's family as they planned a vigil in her honor.
Testimonies from Witnesses
Several witnesses have testified during the trial, including McNally's ex-boyfriend, who denied any involvement in her murder. He described McNally as his best friend and expressed disbelief at the accusations against him. He admitted to lying to police about the extent of his contact with McNally in the days following her death, stating that he had been under stress during the investigation.
Another witness, who was in a relationship with McNally's ex-boyfriend at the time, confirmed that they spent the night of December 18 together, watching the World Cup final. She stated that he did not leave the flat that night and had fallen asleep during the game.
Conflicting Accounts and Defense Claims
McCullagh's defense has suggested that another man, McNally's ex-boyfriend, could be responsible for her death. This claim has been firmly denied by the ex-boyfriend, who insisted that McCullagh was the one responsible. The defense has also highlighted inconsistencies in witness testimonies, particularly regarding the timeline of events on the night of the murder.
Official Statements & Responses
The prosecution has emphasized the emotional turmoil McNally experienced leading up to her death, as evidenced by her messages. The defense has countered by questioning the reliability of witness statements and suggesting that McCullagh's actions were misinterpreted.
What's Next
The trial continues, with further testimonies expected as the prosecution and defense present their cases. The jury will need to consider the evidence and testimonies carefully to reach a verdict in this high-profile case.
