A man has been found guilty of murder for causing fatal injuries to his four-week-old baby through violent shaking. Tony Bartlett, aged 39, residing in Axminster, Devon, faced trial at Bristol Crown Court where evidence revealed he inflicted severe harm on his son, Atticus, resulting in internal brain and spinal trauma and three rib fractures. Despite denying the charges, Bartlett was convicted of murder after a four-week trial and will receive sentencing later this month.
During the trial, it was disclosed that Bartlett and his partner, Evelyn Ballentyne, had gone for a night out, leaving the baby in the care of Ballentyne’s parents. Bartlett, having consumed a significant amount of alcohol, returned home with Ballentyne, where the tragic incident unfolded. Prosecutors highlighted Bartlett’s intoxication as a contributing factor to his loss of control and aggressive actions towards the infant.
Following the incident, Atticus was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries a week later. Medical experts described the injuries as comparable to those from high-impact accidents, ruling out natural causes or ordinary handling as the cause. Bartlett initially denied any wrongdoing but later admitted to mishandling the child due to being intoxicated.
Despite conflicting statements from Ballentyne regarding the events that transpired, the court focused on Bartlett’s actions leading to the tragic outcome. The judge emphasized the tumultuous nature of the couple’s relationship and deferred sentencing, revoking Bartlett’s bail pending further legal proceedings.
Bartlett is set to face sentencing on July 24 for the murder of his infant son, Atticus, as the court seeks to deliver justice in this heartbreaking case.