Full Breakdown
Stephen McCullagh Found Guilty of Murdering Natalie McNally
3/27/2026, 1:08:07 AM
Overview of the Case
Stephen McCullagh, 36, has been found guilty of murdering his pregnant partner, Natalie McNally, who was 15 weeks pregnant at the time of her death. The crime occurred on December 18, 2022, at McNally's home in Lurgan, County Armagh. McCullagh was convicted by a jury at Belfast Crown Court after a trial that lasted over four weeks, with the jury reaching a unanimous verdict in just over two hours.
Details of the Crime
Natalie McNally, 32, was brutally attacked, suffering multiple stab wounds and blunt force trauma. The prosecution argued that McCullagh had premeditated the murder, creating a false alibi by livestreaming a video gaming session on YouTube during the time of the attack. This session, titled "The Violent Night Christmas Live Gaming Stream," was later proven to be pre-recorded, undermining McCullagh's claims of innocence.
Evidence presented during the trial included CCTV footage tracking McCullagh's movements from Lisburn to Lurgan, where he entered McNally's home shortly before the murder. Following the attack, he returned home and made a 999 call, portraying himself as a distraught partner who had discovered McNally's body.
Family's Reaction and Impact
The McNally family expressed profound grief and relief following the verdict. Natalie's father, Noel McNally, described the moment of learning about McCullagh's guilt as surreal, stating, "We've been waiting three and a half years for that one word." The family emphasized their ongoing pain, with Noel asserting that no sentence would be sufficient for McCullagh, who they believe poses a danger to society.
Natalie's brother, Declan, highlighted her potential as a mother, stating, "You would have been an amazing mother to baby Dean." He also called attention to the broader issue of violence against women, urging society to confront this pervasive problem.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the verdict, Judge Patrick Kinney stated that McCullagh would face a mandatory life sentence, with a tariff hearing scheduled for May to determine the minimum time he must serve before being eligible for parole. The judge commended the jury for their diligence and the McNally family for their dignity throughout the trial.
First Minister Michelle O'Neill expressed her condolences, describing Natalie as a "beautiful and talented young woman" and emphasizing the need to end violence against women and girls. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly echoed these sentiments, calling the situation "utterly heartbreaking."
Criticism & Opposition
While the prosecution presented a strong case against McCullagh, his defense argued that there were gaps in the circumstantial evidence and suggested that another individual, McNally's ex-boyfriend, could have been responsible for the murder. However, the jury ultimately rejected this defense, leading to McCullagh's conviction.
What's Next
McCullagh will be sentenced in May, where the court will determine the minimum period he must serve before being considered for release. The McNally family continues to advocate for justice for all victims of violence against women, emphasizing the need for societal change to prevent future tragedies.
