A father, Tony Bartlett, has been found guilty of murdering his four-week-old baby by shaking him to death. Bartlett initially misled the police, claiming his infant son, Atticus, had suddenly become lifeless. However, it was revealed that Bartlett had inflicted severe injuries on the child at their home in Chard, Somerset.
The court learned that Bartlett was alone with his healthy son when he caused the fatal injuries. Despite his denial of the act during police questioning, a jury convicted Bartlett after a lengthy trial at Bristol Crown Court.
In a recorded interaction with the police, Bartlett narrated that he and his wife had been out for a comedy show and returned home before Atticus’ condition worsened. He described hearing the baby make stuttering sounds before becoming lifeless. Despite efforts by medical professionals, Atticus tragically passed away a week later at Bristol Royal Infirmary.
Following the verdict, Detective Superintendent Lorett Spierenburg expressed the profound impact of the tragic loss on Atticus’ family. She stated that Bartlett was solely responsible for the catastrophic injuries that led to the baby’s death, despite his claims of innocence.
Bartlett is set to be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on July 24.