Man appears in court charged with murder and attempted murder

Stephen Brannigan was found dead in a house on Sunday

A 30-year-old man has appeared in court charged with murder and attempted murder in relation to incidents in Downpatrick on Sunday.

Hugh Malone, from Belfast but with no fixed abode, appeared before Newtownards Magistrates' Court charged with the murder of Stephen Brannigan and the attempted murder of County Down priest Fr John Murray.

Police discovered the body of Mr Brannigan, 56, at a house in Marian Park in Downpatrick at about 12:00 BST on Sunday.

Fr John Murray is recovering in hospital after being attacked while preparing to celebrate his last Mass before retirement at St Patrick's Church in the town.

Fr John Murray was attacked prior to celebrating his last Mass on Sunday

Mr Malone appeared via a video link from Musgrave police station in Belfast.

He spoke only to confirm his name and that he understood the charges.

A detective chief inspector confirmed to the court she could connect him to the charges.

Mr Malone's solicitor told the court there was an obvious and very significant mental health context to the case.

It was also confirmed with the PSNI officer that Mr Malone had the assistance of an appropriate adult during interviews.

No application for bail was made and he was remanded in to custody.

Mr Malone is due to appear again on 4 September in Downpatrick Court.