An alleged fake video game livestream was presented during the trial of a man accused of murdering his pregnant girlfriend. In Belfast Crown Court, Stephen McCullagh was shown broadcasting himself playing Grand Theft Auto, consuming alcohol, using profanity, and aggressively interacting with the game characters.
Authorities suspect that Natalie McNally, 32, who was 15 weeks pregnant, was murdered at her residence in Lurgan on the night of December 18, 2022. McCullagh, 36, from Lisburn, denies the allegations and purportedly streamed the gameplay on the same night to prove he had not left his home.
The prosecution argues that the livestream was prerecorded and broadcast as live on December 18, while McCullagh disguised himself, traveled to Lurgan, and committed the crime at Miss McNally’s house. They claim that he then returned home via taxi before going back to the victim’s residence on December 19 and making a distress call to emergency services.
During the trial at Belfast Crown Court, it was revealed that Miss McNally suffered a prolonged assault involving stab wounds, strangulation, and severe head injuries. The prosecution alleges that McCullagh meticulously planned and executed the murder with the intent of evading justice.
A jury composed of six men and six women has been sworn in for the trial, expected to span approximately five weeks under the direction of Mr. Justice Patrick Kinney. McCullagh, appearing in court on Wednesday flanked by guards, conducted a six-hour livestream titled “The Violent Night Christmas Live Gaming Stream,” during which he engaged in the game Grand Theft Auto, consumed alcohol, and exhibited erratic behavior.
Throughout the livestream, McCullagh displayed aggressive behavior, including yelling at game characters and making concerning statements. Evidence presented in court included a knife found at the crime scene, a document detailing Miss McNally’s medical condition, and images of McCullagh’s residence.
Prosecutor Bobbie-Leigh Herdman read out WhatsApp messages exchanged between McCullagh and Miss McNally before her death, portraying a seemingly normal and affectionate interaction between the couple. The trial is ongoing with more evidence and testimonies yet to be presented.
