The Daily Star Ireland
Police in Downpatrick have opened a murder investigation following the discovery of a man’s body in a residential property in the County Down town. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that a man in his 30s has been arrested and is currently in custody assisting detectives from the Major Investigation Team.
Discovery at Marian Park and Arrest
The victim was found at a house in Marian Park shortly before midnight on Sunday, August 10. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service was called to the scene just before midnight, but the man was pronounced dead soon after. Officers subsequently arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of murder.
Superintendent Norman Haslett, District Commander for Newry, Mourne and Down, stated that police are still in the early stages of their inquiries but believe this death may be linked to a separate violent assault that took place the same morning in the town. He appealed for anyone with potentially relevant information to come forward.
Assault on Canon John Murray in St Patrick’s Church
Earlier that day, Canon John Murray was preparing to lead 10:30 a.m. Mass at St Patrick’s Church when he was struck on the head with a bottle. The attack left him with a serious head injury, and he is currently receiving treatment in hospital. The church has urged parishioners to keep him in their prayers as he recovers.
The PSNI is investigating whether the assault on Canon Murray and the death in Marian Park are connected.
Political and Community Reactions
Local political figures have expressed shock and concern over the two incidents. South Down MP Chris Hazzard of Sinn Féin described the events as “deeply shocking” and said they had “horrified the local community.”
SDLP Councillor Conor Galbraith visited Marian Park to show support for those affected. He called it “a very difficult day for people in Downpatrick” and urged the public to give police “time and space” to complete their investigation.
The back-to-back incidents have left residents in Downpatrick unsettled, with many expressing disbelief that such violence could occur in their community. Local leaders are emphasizing the need for calm, cooperation with police inquiries, and solidarity with those directly affected by the tragedy and assault.
