A father is accused of causing the death of his four-week-old baby boy by shaking him violently after consuming nine pints of beer. The baby, Atticus Bartlett, passed away in a hospital following an incident at the family residence in Chard, Somerset, on July 16, 2022. Tony Bartlett, aged 39, is contesting allegations of murder and manslaughter in connection with his son’s demise due to brain injuries.
During the trial, Atticus’ mother, Evelyn Ballentyne, testified in Bristol Crown Court that she was horrified to discover her son motionless and pale. It is claimed that Bartlett, who works as a postman, shook Atticus aggressively while they were alone together. Ballentyne recounted hearing Atticus emit two gasps while downstairs.
She described the distressing moment when she realized Atticus had turned lifeless and gray, leading her to scream in horror. Ballentyne mentioned that Bartlett had placed Atticus face down on his lap and then turned him over, observing that the baby’s head flopped back lifelessly.
According to Ballentyne’s testimony, she believed Atticus had passed away, prompting her to flee and seek help. The court learned that earlier that evening, Atticus had been in the care of his grandmother and her husband, while Bartlett and Ballentyne were out at a pub and comedy club.
Prosecutors alleged that Bartlett, under the influence of alcohol, violently shook Atticus with such force that he caused severe brain and spinal injuries. Additionally, several of Atticus’ ribs were fractured. Despite medical intervention, Atticus never regained consciousness and succumbed to his injuries on July 23, 2022.
Bartlett, hailing from Axminster, Devon, refutes the charges against him as the trial progresses.
