A father has been convicted of murdering his four-week-old baby by shaking him to death after the infant appeared lifeless. Tony Bartlett, aged 39, initially misled the authorities, claiming the baby suddenly fell ill. However, it was revealed in court that Bartlett had inflicted severe injuries on the child at their home in Chard, Somerset.
The tragic incident occurred while Bartlett was alone feeding his son, who was described as healthy at the time. Medical reports confirmed that Bartlett caused catastrophic injuries that led to the baby’s untimely death. Bartlett, a postman from Axminster, Devon, has now been found guilty of murder and is awaiting a substantial prison sentence.
During police questioning following the incident, Bartlett failed to confess to his actions. After a four-week trial, a jury at Bristol Crown Court reached a verdict, holding Bartlett accountable for the fatal injuries inflicted on his son.
In a disturbing turn of events, police bodycam footage captured Bartlett recounting a seemingly normal evening with his wife before the tragic discovery of their baby’s condition. Despite Bartlett’s claims of innocence, the evidence presented in court pointed to his sole responsibility for the fatal injuries sustained by the infant.
Following the heartbreaking loss of their child, the family of the deceased baby has endured a challenging investigation and trial process. The investigating officer expressed the profound impact of the case, emphasizing the loss suffered and the difficult journey for the family seeking justice.
Tony Bartlett is set to be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Friday, July 24.
