LAST UPDATE | 10 Aug 2025

A PRIEST IS in serious condition after being hit over the head with a glass bottle in a church this morning.

Detectives in Northern Ireland are appealing for information following the serious assault in Downpatrick, Co Down.

Police say that at around 10.10am, a man walked into the church on St Patrick’s Avenue and hit Fr John Murray on his head with a bottle before leaving.

A spokesman for the Diocese of Down and Connor said that Canon John Murray, the parish priest of Downpatrick, was approached earlier this morning by a man asking him to “celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation on the way into the church, at which stage Canon John was attacked”.

“It’s very concerning and disturbing that this attack occurred towards a priest who was vulnerable in the course of his ministry and service to the local community,” the spokesman continued.

“Obviously, our thoughts and prayers are with Canon John Murray. Canon Murray was due to retire as parish priest in the coming weeks and will continue to serve in the local family of parishes.

“As parish priest of Downpatrick, Canon Murray is very well known and very well liked and parishioners and others from across the community have been in contact today to assure him of their ongoing prayers and support at this time.

“The Diocese has received the devastating and shocking news that another man in Downpatrick has been murdered in what appears to be a related incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family and indeed all affected by this attack resulting in the loss of life.”

Downpatrick Family of Parishes thanked people for their prayers and well wishes in a post to Facebook.

“Parishioners will be aware of an incident in St Patrick’s Church earlier today.Fr Murray is currently receiving medical treatment.We thank you for your prayers and well wishes.”

A later post said that there will be a service this evening at 7pm for peace in the community.

Detective Chief Inspector David McBurney described the attack as “completely shocking and brutal”.

The investigation is ongoing and police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the assault, or has any information to contact them on 101 and quoting reference 543 of 10/08/25.