Downpatrick priest in “serious condition” after bottle attack

Fr John Murray was due to retire shortly

Police have launched an investigation after a priest was attacked and left in a “serious condition”.

Fr John Murray was struck on the head with a bottle at St Patrick’s Church in Downpatrick earlier today.

In a statement the PSNI said detectives are appealing for information “following the report of a priest being seriously assaulted in Downpatrick”.

A spokesperson added: “It was reported to police at around 10.10am on Sunday, 10th 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.”

Detective Chief Inspector McBurney said: “This was a completely shocking and brutal attack and has left the priest with a serious head injury.

“Our enquiries are ongoing into this incident, and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed the assault, or has any information to contact Police on 101 and quoting reference 543 of 10/08/25.”

The police said people can also report online at https://www.psni.police.uk/report or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.org/.

Fr Murray is believed to have been preparing for what would have been one of his last Masses before retiring. Sources say he was attacked in the church’s sacristy before Mass.

In a Facebook post, South Down MP Chris Hazzard said: “I was shocked and saddened to hear the news from Downpatrick this morning that Father Murray was attacked in St Patrick’s Church.

“My thoughts and prayers are with him, and I wish him a full and speedy recovery. This cowardly attack is completely unacceptable and I condemn it unequivocally. I urge anyone with information to contact the police.”

In a post on the Downpatrick ‘Family Of Parishes’ Facebook page they said: “Parishioners will be aware of an incident in St Patrick’s Church earlier today. Fr Murray is currently receiving medical treatment. We thank you for your prayers and well wishes.”

Down and Connor Diocese have been contacted for comment.

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