Emergency services were called to the second incident in the town shortly before midday on Sunday
15:57, 10 Aug 2025Updated 16:44, 10 Aug 2025
The scene at St Patrick’s Church in Downpatrick (Image: Pacemaker)
A man has died following an incident in Downpatrick on Sunday afternoon, which police believe may be linked to an earlier incident in which a local priest was attacked with a bottle in St Patrick’s Church in the town.
It was reported to police at around 10.10 am on Sunday, 10 August that a man had walked into the church on St Patrick’s Avenue and hit the priest on his head with a bottle before leaving. The victim was taken to hospital for treatment of a head injury, where he remains in a serious condition.
Emergency services were then called to Marian Park shortly before midday following reports of a second incident.
While police are believed to be investigating a link between the attacks, a motive has not yet been established.
Newry, Mourne and Down, District Commander Superintendent Norman Haslett said: “Police attended an address in the Marian Park area following a report of a deceased man at approximately 12pm on Sunday afternoon, 10th August.
“A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder, and remains in police custody assisting with enquiries.
“Enquiries are at an early stage and, at this time, we suspect this may be connected to a serious assault in the St Patrick’s Avenue area of Downpatrick on Sunday.
“I am appealing to anyone who believes they may have information which could assist us with our investigation to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 713 of 10/8/25.”
A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport
Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.
A Northern Ireland Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service received a 999 call at 11:57 on Sunday 10 August, following reports of an incident in the Marian Park area of Downpatrick.
“NIAS despatched two emergency ambulances and an ambulance officer to the incident.
“Following assessment at the scene no patients were taken to hospital.”
A local councillor for the area, who visited the scene of the incident, called on people to give the police time to conduct their investigations.
Councillor Galbraith said: “This is a very difficult day for people in Downpatrick after these two incidents and I have visited the Marian Park area to show my support to those affected.
“This is an ongoing situation, and I would ask people to give police time and space to carry out their investigations.
“People locally are devastated that this has happened on their doorsteps.”
Fr John Murray was attacked with a bottle shortly before Mass this morning
Speaking following the attack on the priest, local MP Chris Hazzard called on anyone with information to contact the police.
“What has happened in Downpatrick is deeply shocking,” the South Down MP said.
“The death of a man, along with the vicious attack on Fr Murray in St Patrick’s Church, has deeply saddened and horrified the local community.
“My thoughts are with all those affected by these tragic events including family and friends of the victims, parishioners who were on their way to Mass this morning, and the emergency services who attended the scenes.
“I would encourage anyone with information to contact police to assist them with their investigations.”
SDLP MLA Colin McGrath said: “This is a disgraceful attack on an elderly priest which has left him in a serious condition in hospital. For this to happen in the church is particularly disgusting and I have spoken to many members of the community who are shocked and upset that this has taken place.
“My thoughts are with the priest and others impacted by this attack. I hope that he makes a quick recovery and that the person responsible is apprehended.”
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