A Catholic priest was attacked with a glass bottle in a church in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, on Sunday morning. Father John Murray was preparing for mass at St Patrick’s Church when a man entered, struck him with the bottle, and fled.
The priest was taken to hospital with a serious head injury and remains in a serious condition. Hours later, police launched a murder inquiry after a man was found dead in the same town around midday.
A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Police believe the two incidents may be linked. Superintendent Norman Haslett said: 'Enquiries 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.'
Detective Chief Inspector McBurney described the attack on Father Murray as 'completely shocking and brutal'. Police are appealing for witnesses to contact them on 101, quoting reference 543 of 10/08/25.
The Downpatrick Family of Parishes confirmed the incident and asked for prayers. Sinn Fein MP Chris Hazzard condemned the 'cowardly' act, while SDLP councillor Colin McGrath called it a 'disgusting attack' that has shocked the community.
