A detective leading the investigation into the killing of Natalie McNally has told Belfast Crown Court that text messages exchanged between the victim and the YouTuber accused of her murder did not contain a "single trace of an argument". Detective Chief Inspector Neil McGuinness resumed giving evidence at the trial on Monday, where he reviewed transcribed WhatsApp communications spanning 133 days between August and December 2022.
Details of the Messages
Defence barrister John Kearney highlighted that the 498 pages of messages showed no signs of conflict between Ms McNally, 32, and the defendant, Stephen McCullagh, 36. Mr Kearney described the tone as "night and day" compared to her previous relationships, calling it an example of "perfect normality" with "loving and tender" exchanges. The messages included poetic extracts, such as one from Seamus Heaney, and expressions like "Totally addicted to you" from Ms McNally and "You are the sweetest, loveliest person I've ever met" from McCullagh.
Detective's Observations
However, Detective McGuinness noted that he did not observe any "affectionate language" such as kisses or "I love yous" in the correspondence, which stood out to him. He explained that, based on Ms McNally's other communications, he expected "more forthright communication" and was surprised by the nature of these exchanges. The detective stated that Ms McNally was a "heavy phone user," with messages exchanged almost daily, primarily when the couple were not together or at work.
Background of the Case
Ms McNally was 15 weeks pregnant when she was killed at her home in Lurgan on December 18, 2022. Stephen McCullagh, of Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, is on trial for her murder and has denied the charge. The court heard that the messages indicated the couple had exchanged addresses and begun spending nights at each other's homes, with later references to her pregnancy and plans to move in together.
Trial Proceedings
After Detective McGuinness finished his evidence, agreed facts were read to the jury, and the prosecution concluded its case. Trial judge Mr Justice Kinney informed the jury that all prosecution evidence had been presented. Following lunch, defence barrister Mr Kearney confirmed that no evidence would be called on behalf of the defendant. The judge then announced that the evidence in the case had concluded, with closing statements set to begin on Wednesday.
