A 30-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of Stephen Brannigan and the attempted murder of Fr John Murray in Downpatrick, County Down.
Hugh Malone, originally from Belfast but with no fixed address, was brought before Newtownards Magistrates’ Court on Thursday via video link from Musgrave police station in Belfast.
Victim Found Dead, Priest Seriously Injured
Police discovered the body of Mr Brannigan, 56, at a property in Marian Park, Downpatrick, shortly after midday on Sunday.
On the same day, Fr Murray — a local priest preparing to celebrate his final Mass before retirement at St Patrick’s Church — was attacked. He is currently recovering in hospital.
Court Proceedings
During the short hearing, Malone spoke only to confirm his name and to acknowledge that he understood the charges. A detective chief inspector told the court she could connect him to both offences.
Malone’s solicitor noted there was a “very significant mental health context” to the case. The court also heard that an appropriate adult had been present during his police interviews.
No bail application was made, and Malone was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear again on 4 September at Downpatrick Court.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not yet provided further details on the circumstances leading to the two incidents but continue to appeal for information from the public.
