A man has been arrested in connection with the murder of a priest in Downpatrick, County Down, in a case that has sent shockwaves through the local community.
The victim, a Catholic priest in his 60s, was found with fatal stab wounds at a property in the area on Wednesday evening. Police confirmed they were treating the death as murder.
Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Major Investigation Team have taken a 28-year-old man into custody on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody for questioning.
Community in Shock
The killing has left the tight-knit community of Downpatrick reeling, with local residents expressing their disbelief at the violent death of a respected religious figure.
"This is absolutely devastating news for our parish," said one local churchgoer. "Father [name withheld] was a kind and gentle man who dedicated his life to serving others."
Police Investigation Ongoing
Police have cordoned off the scene as forensic examinations continue. Officers are appealing for anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
A PSNI spokesperson stated: "We are treating this as a murder investigation and are following several lines of enquiry. The local community can expect to see an increased police presence in the area."
The arrested man is expected to appear in court in the coming days as the investigation progresses.
