'Brutal bottle attack' on priest in church before mass 'may be linked to murder fewer than two miles away', police say
Police received a report that a man was found dead at an address in the Marian Park area of Downpatrick at about 12pm on Sunday.
A man, 30, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is in police custody.
Earlier today a priest was rushed to hospital after he was 'bottled by a man who walked into church before mass'.
Father John Murray was hit on the head at St Patrick's Church in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, today.
Police chiefs have said today that the incidents, just 1.3 miles away from each other and just under two hours apart, may be linked.
In a statement, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said the priest was in a 'serious condition' in hospital after what has been described by detectives as a 'brutal attack'.
Fr Murray was believed to have been preparing for one of his last Masses before retiring when the attack took place in the church's sacristy at 10.10am.
Superintendent Norman Haslett, district commander for Newry, Mourne and Down, said officers suspect that the murder investigation may be linked to the attack on the priest.
'Inquiries 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,' he said.
'I am appealing to anyone who believes they may have information which could assist us with our investigation to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 713 of August 10 2025.'
A PSNI spokesperson said: '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 St MacNissi's Parish, in Larne, said Fr Murray had been taken to the Royal Victoria hospital for surgery.
Writing on Facebook, a post read: 'Please remember Fr Murray, retiring Parish Priest of Downpatrick who was the subject of an incident this morning in St Patrick's Church, Downpatrick which left him requiring medical care.
'Pray for his speedy recovery both physically and emotionally from this frightening incident.'
Sinn Fein MP Chris Hazzard said in a Facebook post that he was left 'shocked and saddened to hear the news' about Ft Murray's attack.
'My thoughts and prayers are with him, and I wish him a full and speedy recovery,' he wrote.
'This cowardly attack is completely unacceptable and I condemn it unequivocally. I urge anyone with information to contact the police.'
Cathy Mason, member of the Northern Ireland Assembly, said she was 'horrified'.
'The attack on Father Murray in St Patrick's Church, Downpatrick, this morning is deeply shocking,' she wrote on her Facebook page.
'No one should ever face violence, least of all in a place of worship. This was a shameful act and must be condemned outright.
'My thoughts are with Father Murray and I hope he makes a swift and full recovery.'
A post on the Downpatrick Family of Parishes thanked people for their prayers and well wishes.
'Parishioners will be aware of an incident in St Patrick's Church earlier today. Fr Murray is currently receiving medical treatment,' it read.
DUP MLA for South Down Diane Forsythe condemned the 'shocking and disgraceful attack on a religious leader in a place of worship'.
Of the two incidents, she said: 'There is no place for violent attacks in our society.
'My thoughts and prayers are with the entire community as they process this devastating murder as well as the serious assault earlier today.'
Alliance South Down MLA Andrew McMurray said the 'heartbreaking' incidents had left many in the local community 'in shock on what should be a day of peace and rest'.
'First and foremost, my thoughts and sympathies are with the family, friends, and loved ones of the two victims of today's attacks, as well as anyone who's been impacted.
'I want to wish Fr Murray all the best for a hopefully speedy recovery.
'I also want to extend my thanks to the local PSNI officers who acted swiftly and professionally in dealing with the incidents, under what will have been difficult and distressing circumstances.
'Tonight, I will be standing alongside the people of Downpatrick at a special prayer service in response to today's events, and in honour of the victims and their families.'
Anyone with information is urged to bring it to the attention of police by calling 101 and quoting reference 543 of 10/08/25 for the assault on the priest, or 713 of 10/08/25 for the murder inquiry.
People can also submit a report on the PSNI website or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
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