PSNI investigates assault claim after Burke confronts archbishop

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 13:07 · Archive

Police are investigating an alleged assault after Enoch Burke was filmed accosting Archbishop John McDowell.

The PSNI has launched an assault investigation following a filmed confrontation between former teacher Enoch Burke and Archbishop John McDowell, head of the Church of Ireland, at St Patrick's Cathedral in Armagh. A video posted on social media shows Burke repeatedly grabbing the Archbishop's arm and calling him a 'traitor' over the course of five minutes.

Burke and family members approached Archbishop McDowell in the cathedral grounds following a funeral service. In the footage, Burke is seen following the Archbishop as he attempts to walk away, accosting him along the way. Burke told the Archbishop he had 'languished' in a prison cell for '700 days' whilst the Archbishop had been 'silent'. The Archbishop can be heard asking Burke to let him go and telling him he was being assaulted.

Burke repeatedly accused the Archbishop of being a 'traitor to Church of Ireland doctrine' and a 'deceiver'. The Archbishop was followed to his residence before eventually making it inside and closing the door. Speaking to the camera afterwards, Burke said the Archbishop 'will not give an answer' and 'will not get away with that'.

How it is being reported

• PSNI investigating 'assault' on Church of Ireland archbishop after Enoch Burke livestreams confrontationThe PSNI are investigating an alleged assault on the Anglican archbishop of Ireland, John McDowell.News Letter · 30 Oct, 12:54
• PSNI launch assault probe after controversial teacher Enoch Burke confronts Archbishop John McDowellIn a video posted on X, Burke is seen repeatedly grabbing Archbishop McDowell's arm and calling him a "traitor" throughout the five-minute clip.Belfast Live · 30 Oct, 12:07

In this story: Enoch Burke · Archbishop John McDowell · Church of Ireland · St Patrick's Cathedral · Armagh · PSNI

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