Tony Bartlett, 39, was convicted of murdering his newborn son, Atticus, after a violent incident at the family’s home in Chard, Somerset, in July 2022. The infant was critically injured while alone with his father and died in the hospital a week later.

Prosecutors told the court that Bartlett had been out with Atticus’ mother, Evelyn Ballentyne, for their first evening together since their son was born. During the night, he drank more than eight pints of beer before the couple returned home, where Evelyn’s parents had been caring for the baby.

After her parents left, Evelyn briefly went upstairs, leaving Bartlett alone with Atticus. Just minutes later, she heard her son struggling to breathe. When she picked him up, he was unresponsive, prompting a frantic call to emergency services.

Medical specialists later determined that Atticus had suffered catastrophic head and spinal injuries consistent with severe trauma. Experts testified that the injuries could not have occurred naturally or through normal handling of an infant.

During the trial, prosecutors argued that Bartlett lost control in what they described as “a moment of pure violence,” adding that his heavy alcohol consumption likely contributed to the attack. Although Bartlett denied shaking or intentionally harming his son, the jury rejected his account after hearing extensive medical evidence.

Atticus’ mother was initially arrested as part of the investigation but was never charged and later testified during the trial.

Following the guilty verdict, investigators said the evidence clearly showed Bartlett was solely responsible for the fatal injuries.

Detective Superintendent Lorett Spierenburg described the case as a heartbreaking tragedy, saying Atticus lost his life because of “a violent and cruel act.” She also praised the child’s family for their strength and dignity throughout the lengthy investigation and trial.

Tony Bartlett is scheduled to be sentenced on July 24.

Source: The Sun