YouTuber Stephen McCullagh Convicted of Murdering Pregnant Partner Natalie McNally

Stephen McCullagh, a 36-year-old YouTuber, has been found guilty of murdering his pregnant partner, Natalie McNally, who was 32 years old and 15 weeks pregnant at the time of her death. The conviction was delivered by a jury at Belfast Crown Court on Monday, following a five-week trial. McNally was brutally attacked in her home in Lurgan on December 18, 2022, suffering multiple stab wounds, strangulation, and severe head trauma.

The Independent

During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence that McCullagh had fabricated an alibi by claiming he was livestreaming a gaming session on the night of the murder. However, it was revealed that the six-hour broadcast had been pre-recorded four days earlier. Barrister Charles MacCreanor KC emphasized that McCullagh's assertion of being live was a "complete fabrication," noting that he misled various individuals about his activities during the critical hours surrounding the murder.

The Independent

The jury learned that McCullagh had disguised himself, traveled to McNally's residence, and committed the murder before returning home by taxi. Following the attack, he made a 999 call the next day, claiming to have discovered her body. Notably, he attended a wake at McNally's family home just days after the murder, where he received support from her grieving family.

The Independent

The jury deliberated for two hours before reaching their verdict. McCullagh displayed no visible reaction as the verdict was announced, while McNally's family and friends expressed their relief and support in the courtroom. The prosecution's case highlighted the calculated nature of McCullagh's actions, both in committing the murder and in attempting to cover it up.

The Independent

Critics of McCullagh's defense have pointed to the premeditated nature of the crime, arguing that his actions demonstrate a profound disregard for McNally's life and the lives of their unborn child. The prosecution's portrayal of McCullagh as deceitful and manipulative has resonated with the public, particularly given the circumstances of his behavior following the murder.

The Independent

• “His claim that between 6pm and midnight he was going live was a complete fabrication,” — Charles MacCreanor KC, Barrister

The Independent

• “The family literally bring him in, they console him, they support him, they help him,” — Charles MacCreanor KC, Barrister

The Independent

Following the conviction, McCullagh is expected to face sentencing, where the court will determine the appropriate punishment for his actions. The case has drawn significant media attention, raising discussions about domestic violence and the responsibilities of individuals in relationships.

The Independent