The trial of Stephen McCullagh, accused of the murder of Natalie McNally, began today at Belfast Crown Court with testimony revealing the defendant allegedly fabricated a 999 emergency call as part of an attempt to mislead investigators. Ms. McNally, 32, was 15 weeks pregnant when she was killed at her home in Lurgan, County Armagh, in December 2022. McCullagh, 36, of Lisburn, denies the charge of murder.
Prosecutors allege that the killing was “planned, calculated and pre-meditated,” and that McCullagh attempted to create a false alibi. The case centers around claims that McCullagh misrepresented his activities on the night of the murder, initially telling police he had been livestreaming on YouTube for six hours. Yet, cybercrime experts reportedly determined that the footage had been pre-recorded and broadcast later to create the illusion of a live stream, according to reporting from RTE.
Details of the 999 Call
A ten-minute 999 call made by McCullagh on December 19, 2022 – the day after Ms. McNally was found dead – was played in court. During the call, McCullagh reportedly told the emergency operator that Ms. McNally was pregnant, “cold,” and that there was “blood everywhere,” as detailed in reports from Armagh I.
Prosecution’s Case
Barrister Charles MacCreanor KC, representing the prosecution, told the jury that Ms. McNally suffered three stab wounds to her neck, compression of her neck, and at least five heavy blows to the head, resulting in serious blunt force trauma. The prosecution contends that McCullagh, who is known as Votesaxon07 on YouTube, attempted to deflect suspicion by suggesting an ex-partner might be responsible and exaggerating the scene’s violence. The Independent reports that Mr. MacCreanor stated to the jury, “We say that this is a planned, calculated, pre-meditated murder by the defendant, one which he hoped to acquire away with.”
Jury Selection and Trial Timeline
The jury, comprised of six men and six women, was sworn in on Monday, February 23, 2026, and is expected to hear evidence for approximately five weeks, according to BBC News. The trial is being presided over by Mr Justice Kinney. Proceedings commenced with jury selection earlier this week, as reported by the BBC on February 16, 2026.
McCullagh sat in the dock during the opening of the trial, with family and friends of Ms. McNally present in the public gallery. The trial is expected to continue with the presentation of evidence on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
The case continues as the court seeks to determine the circumstances surrounding the death of Natalie McNally and the veracity of the defendant’s claims. Further developments are anticipated as the trial progresses and evidence is presented.
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