Natalie McNally case: court hears 999 call was 'an act'

At Belfast Crown Court prosecutors said a 999 call made the night after Natalie McNally's death was 'an act'; the defendant denies the charge and the prosecution has opened its case to a jury.

The trial of Stephen McCullagh, who denies the murder of Natalie McNally, is under way at Belfast Crown Court. The court heard a 999 call made from McNally's home the night after her death. Prosecutors told jurors the call was "an act" and part of a plan, while the defence disputes the allegation. The prosecution opened its case to a jury of six men and six women. Reported facts: - A 999 call made the night after McNally's death was played to the jury. - Prosecutors told the court the call was "an act" and part of a planned attempt to conceal the killing, as reported in opening statements. - The recording includes the defendant saying the woman was not breathing and that she was pregnant, according to the court. - The prosecution has opened its case and the trial is ongoing before a jury; the next procedural step is undetermined at this time. Summary: Prosecutors say the 999 call was staged and presented that claim as part of their opening case. The defendant denies the charge and the trial continues before the jury. Undetermined at this time.