Downpatrick: vigil after man is found dead and priest is left with serious injuries in "brutal assault"

A special prayer service was held in Downpatrick last night (Sunday) after a man was found dead in a house and a priest was left with serious injuries after what police said was a "brutal assault."

Hundreds gathered at St Brigid's Church to pay their respects.

Earlier, the PSNI launched a murder investigation into the man's death which police said may be linked to the attack on Fr John Murray at St Patrick's Church yesterday morning.

It was reported to police that at just after 10 o'clock, a man walked into the church and hit Fr Murray on the head with a bottle.

He is now in hospital in a "serious but stable" condition.

Meanwhile, police received a report that a man was found dead at an address in the Marian Park area of the Co Down town at around midday

A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is in police custody.

Superintendent Norman Haslett, district commander for Newry, Mourne and Down, said officers suspect that the murder investigation may be linked to the attack on the priest.

"Inquiries 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," he said.

"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 August 10 2025."

Detective Chief Inspector McBurney said it was a "shocking and brutal attack" on the priest and appealed for people with information to come forward.

The Sinn Fein MP for South Down, Chris Hazzard, said the attack on the priest and the death of the man in Downpatrick were "deeply shocking".

"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."

DUP MLA for South Down Diane Forsythe condemned the "shocking and disgraceful attack on a religious leader in a place of worship".

Of the two incidents, she said: "There is no place for violent attacks in our society.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the entire community as they process this devastating murder as well as the serious assault earlier today."

Alliance South Down MLA Andrew McMurray said the "heartbreaking" incidents had left many in the local community "in shock on what should be a day of peace and rest".

"First and foremost, my thoughts and sympathies are with the family, friends, and loved ones of the two victims of today's attacks, as well as anyone who's been impacted.

"I want to wish Fr Murray all the best for a hopefully speedy recovery.

"I also want to extend my thanks to the local PSNI officers who acted swiftly and professionally in dealing with the incidents, under what will have been difficult and distressing circumstances.

"Tonight, I will be standing alongside the people of Downpatrick at a special prayer service in response to today's events, and in honour of the victims and their families."

Anyone with information is urged to bring it to the attention of police by calling 101 and quoting reference 543 of 10/08/25 for the assault on the priest, or 713 of 10/08/25 for the murder inquiry.

People can also submit a report on the PSNI website or anonymously through Crimestoppers.