A man has been found guilty of killing his four-week-old infant by shaking him, causing severe injuries. Tony Bartlett, aged 39 and from Axminster in Devon, was convicted of murdering his son Atticus at their home in Chard, as detailed in a trial held at Bristol Crown Court.
The court heard that Atticus sustained critical internal injuries to his brain and spinal cord from the incident, ultimately leading to his death in the hospital a week later. Additionally, the baby suffered three rib fractures that were unrelated to resuscitation attempts.
Following a month-long trial, a jury at Bristol Crown Court reached a verdict of murder against Bartlett, a postman, who had denied charges of manslaughter and murder. Emotionally overwhelmed, Bartlett reacted by covering his face and breaking down in tears upon hearing the verdict.
Notably, Bartlett’s former partner and Atticus’ mother, Evelyn Ballentyne, was initially arrested but later viewed as a witness in the case, with no criminal charges brought against her. She provided testimony during Bartlett’s trial.
During the evening of the incident, Bartlett and Ballentyne went out for their first night since Atticus was born, leaving the baby in the care of Ballentyne’s mother and stepfather at their residence in Chard, Somerset.
The court revealed that Bartlett consumed 8.5 pints of beer during the evening before returning home with Ballentyne just before 11 pm. Prosecutor Charles Row KC mentioned in the trial that Bartlett’s actions were likely influenced by his alcohol consumption, leading to a loss of temper and frustration.
This tragic event has left a lasting impact on the family, with Bartlett now facing sentencing later this month for the murder of his infant son.
