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In a shocking turn of events, YouTuber Stephen McCullagh has been handed a prison sentence for the murder of his pregnant girlfriend, Natalie McNally. The tragic incident has not only stunned the online community but has also left McNally’s family and friends in deep mourning.
McCullagh, aged 36, was found guilty of the heinous crime in March and, on June 3, the court sentenced him to a minimum of 31 years behind bars. The verdict was confirmed by the Police Service of Northern Ireland, bringing some closure to a case that has captured public attention.
The victim, Natalie McNally, was described as a beloved daughter and sister who was 15 weeks pregnant at the time of her death. Detective Chief Inspector Neil McGuinness highlighted the devastating impact of her loss, noting that McNally was eagerly looking forward to her future as a mother, making the crime all the more heartbreaking.
In a chilling account of the events, McCullagh, who was known for his collectible toy review videos on YouTube, fatally stabbed the 32-year-old McNally in December 2022. In an attempt to cover up his crime, he orchestrated a six-hour livestream of himself playing Grand Theft Auto, trying to establish a false alibi.
Back in December 2022, McCullagh—known for his collectible toy review videos—stabbed the 32-year-old to death. As an alibi, he staged a six-hour livestream of himself playing Grand Theft Auto.
Though he was arrested, he was initially released. Then, after an investigation that included examining “thousands of hours” of surveillance footage, according to the inspector, he was re-arrested and charged in the case.
The attack was “meticulously and coldly premeditated,” the officer explained. “This was an attack that sent shockwaves right across the community.”
Investigators Disprove Stephen McCullagh’s Alibi
McCullagh’s livestream footage was ultimately proven to be pre-recorded several days earlier, per the PSNI.
While wearing a disguise, the Ireland resident—who had over 30,000 YouTube subscribers—had actually “walked some distance from his home and taken a bus to Lurgan,” to carry out the attack, according to the PSNI. “Today, thanks to the collective efforts of our Major Investigation Team and policing teams across the Police Service, and working in partnership with the Public Prosecution Service, the defendant has been held to account.”
The tragic case was referred to as domestic homicide by the investigator: “Sadly we know that domestic abuse can take many forms, and we know that it can affect anyone. In this case, an appalling and ultimate act of violence has taken a young woman’s life.”
McNally is survived by her parents Noel McNally and Bernie McNally, who the officer noted “so dearly” wanted to welcome their daughter’s child.
“Somehow, amidst their sorrow, they have managed to show the most incredible dignity and strength,” the investigator said. “Their kindness is in stark contrast to the cruelty, and calculated web of deceit spun by McCullagh.”
Natalie McNally’s Family Speaks Out
After McCullagh’s sentencing, her parents spoke out about their grief.
“Over the past three and a half years, our family have been through unimaginable pain and grief from the loss of our beautiful Natalie,” Noel said. “We would like to thank everyone who has helped us get to here today – all our family and friends, the whole community of Lurgan, Craigavon and throughout this country and beyond for all the kindness and support we have received.”