Stephen Brannigan was murdered in Marian Park, Downpatrick, while Fr John Murray suffered a serious head injury during a related attack. A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder. Fr Murray, preparing for retirement, is in stable condition in hospital. The parish emphasized exceptional care for him. Fr Eddie McGee described the shocking series of events in Downpatrick, expressing condolences to Brannigan's family and highlighting the community's horror and grief over the violent incidents.
Fr Eddie McGee emphasized the community's shock, stating, 'It's very hard to capture just the shock and the horror expressed yesterday by the parishioners and others who had experienced this brutal attack on the local priest, Fr John Murray.'
Fr John Murray, aged 75, was described as a 'very highly respected' and 'well-liked priest,' who had dedicated his life to the parish and was set to retire.
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