What we know so far as police link Downpatrick incidents

According to reports, the man had asked Fr. Murray to hear his confession before he attacked him

A man has died following an incident in Downpatrick on Sunday afternoon, which police believe may be connected to an earlier attack on a local priest in the town. Officers received a report at around 10.10am on 10 August that a man had entered St Patrick’s Church on St Patrick’s Avenue and struck Fr John Murray on the head with a bottle before leaving. It is believed that the man had asked Fr Murray to hear his confession before he attacked him. The priest, who is understood to have been preparing for one of his last Masses before retirement, was taken to hospital with a serious head injury.

Shortly before midday, emergency services were called to Marian Park after reports of a second incident. Police later confirmed that a man had been found dead at an address there. A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody, assisting with enquiries. Officers say they are investigating a possible link between the two incidents, but have yet to confirm if a motive has been established.

South Down MP Chris Hazzard described the death and the attack on Fr Murray as “deeply shocking” and urged anyone with information to contact the police. SDLP MLA Colin McGrath called the assault on the elderly priest “disgraceful” and “particularly disgusting” given it took place inside a church.

READ MORE: Man arrested as person dies in incident linked to Downpatrick priest attackREAD MORE: Downpatrick priest in “serious condition” after bottle attack

When did the incidents happen?

The attack on Fr Murray was reported to police at around 10.10am on Sunday, 10 August. The second incident at Marian Park was reported shortly before midday the same day.

Who was injured in the first incident?

Fr John Murray, a priest at St Patrick’s Church, sustained a serious head injury after being struck with a bottle. He remains in hospital in a serious condition.

What happened in Marian Park?

Police and ambulance crews responded to a report of a deceased man at an address in Marian Park around 12pm on Sunday. No patients were taken to hospital from this incident.

Has anyone been arrested?

Yes. A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in relation to the Marian Park incident and remains in police custody.

Are the two incidents connected?

Police say they suspect the death in Marian Park may be linked to the earlier assault on Fr Murray, but enquiries are ongoing and no motive has yet been established.

What has the Church said?

Fr Eddie McGee, spokesman for the Diocese of Down and Connor said: The parish priest of Downpatrick, Canon John Murray was approached earlier this morning by a gentleman asking him to celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation on the way into the church, at which stage Canon John was attacked.

“Canon Murray sustained a serious head injury and is currently in hospital receiving treatment. His situation remains serious but stable.

“This incident is under police investigation and we encourage anyone who has information to bring it to the attention of the PSNI.

“It’s very concerning and disturbing that this attack occurred towards a priest who was vulnerable in the course of his ministry and service to the local community.

“Obviously, our thoughts and prayers are with Canon John Murray.

“Canon Murray was due to retire as parish priest in the coming weeks and will continue to serve in the local family of parishes.

“As parish priest of Downpatrick, Canon Murray is very well known and very well liked and parishioners and others from across the community have been in contact today to assure him of their ongoing prayers and support at this time.

“The Diocese has received the devastating and shocking news that another man in Downpatrick has been murdered in what appears to be a related incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family and indeed all affected by this attack resulting in the loss of life.”

What have community representatives said?

Local representatives have expressed shock and sadness, with MP Chris Hazzard, MLA Colin McGrath, and Councillor Conor Galbraith all calling for public assistance and for police to be given time to investigate.

How can people help with the investigation?

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting reference 713 of 10/08/25 for the Marian Park incident or reference 543 of 10/08/25 for the church assault. Reports can also be made via the PSNI’s online reporting form or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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