Stephen McCullagh has been ordered to serve at least 31 years of a life sentence for killing Natalie McNally in Lurgan. Ms McNally, who was 15 weeks pregnant, was murdered on 18 December 2022 by the 36-year-old McCullagh.

On 23 March 2026, a jury at Belfast Crown Court delivered a unanimous guilty verdict against McCullagh for the murder.

Following the sentencing, Catherine Kierans, Head of the PPS Serious Crime Unit, led the prosecution and stated: "Natalie McNally was a much-loved young woman whose life was full of promise. Stephen McCullagh, the father of her unborn baby, violently and senselessly took her life. Today marks the conclusion of proceedings to hold a cold and calculating murderer to justice."

The bravery of Ms McNally's family, including her parents and brothers who were present at every court session, was commended by Ms Kierans: "At the heart of this case are a family who have lost a loved one in the most horrendous circumstances, and I want to pay tribute to them. The dignified and respectful way in which they engaged with the criminal justice system, while also dealing with devastating loss and grief, is remarkable. I know this was not easy for them, but their courage and resilience are testimony to them as a family and their love for Natalie."

Ms Kierans described the killing as a premeditated and calculated act of domestic murder: "McCullagh carefully planned the murder, going to great lengths to try to hide the fact that he alone was responsible. This included creating a false alibi several days before the murder by producing a six-hour YouTube stream that was presented as live on the night of the murder, but that police later determined had been pre-recorded. He also meticulously laid a false trail to Ms McNally's ex-partner, telling several people that he was harassing Ms McNally, which was untrue.

"Having set up this deception, he wore a disguise to travel to Natalie's home where he brutally beat, stabbed and strangled her. In the days and weeks after the murder, posing as a grieving partner, he manipulated his way into the company and trust of her heartbroken family.

"He has now been held to account for this vicious murder for which he has shown no remorse whatsoever."

The prosecution team worked alongside police from the time of McCullagh's second arrest on 31 January 2023, providing legal guidance regarding the decision to charge him. "We in the PPS worked with our partners in the Police Service of Northern Ireland who carried out a thorough and meticulous investigation. Together, we brought together the various strands of evidence, including CCTV, other digital material and witness testimony," she said.

"This helped the prosecution team, including independent Senior Counsel and two Junior Counsel, to set out an overwhelmingly strong case which led to the jury's unanimous guilty verdict.

"I want to commend the witnesses who bravely gave evidence in court. Among them was Natalie's former partner, who was falsely accused by McCullagh of harassing and murdering Natalie. This man was cross-examined intensely over three days at the trial but he was determined to assist the prosecution. The evidence of all the witnesses was essential to building and successfully prosecuting this case.

"I would also like to thank the jury for their service. This case was particularly complex and harrowing, with many strands of evidence for the jury to analyse. Over almost five weeks, the jurors carried out their difficult task with dedication."

Ms Kierans also extended an appeal for any individuals suffering from domestic abuse to come forward for assistance.

"Natalie's murder was unprecedented in the level of planning and sophistication. However, it is far from an isolated event. Violence against women and girls is a pervasive issue in this society that we all must work together to tackle. Domestic abuse – which can take many, including subtle, forms – is a crime and should never be tolerated. Although women and girls are disproportionally affected, anyone of any gender can be a victim. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, please report it to the police or speak to another trusted person such as a victim support group, a GP or social services.

"We consider every case of domestic abuse we receive from police carefully, sensitively and objectively. Our prosecutors are trained to understand how complex domestic abuse can be, and the impact of trauma on victims and witnesses. Where we have sufficient evidence, we will prosecute perpetrators.

"Domestic abusers will rarely stop on their own. If you are experiencing abuse, be aware that there are organisations who can help, advise and offer support and can assist you to report to police. If you are thinking of leaving an abusive relationship, please reach out to support groups who can give advice including on your safety.

"This case is another reminder of the horrific scourge of violence against women and girls. Natalie's family have bravely spoken out, not only about her murder, but this wider issue. Every victim is one too many.

"The impact of this crime will stay with Natalie McNally's family and friends for the rest of their lives. I hope the conclusion of these proceedings brings them some kind of comfort."