Father Guilty of Murder After Shaking Baby to Death
Tony Bartlett, 39, from Axminster, Devon, has been found guilty of murdering his month-old son Atticus, whose injuries were likened to those sustained in a high-speed traffic accident or a fall from a multi-storey building. The verdict was delivered on Wednesday, July 8, at Bristol Crown Court after a four-week trial.
Details of the Incident
On July 16, 2022, Bartlett and the baby's mother, Evelyn Ballentyne, spent an evening at a pub and a comedy club—their first night out since Atticus's birth. Bartlett consumed 8.5 pints of beer during the outing. Upon returning home, Ballentyne went upstairs and came back down to find her son looking "lifeless" and taking his last unassisted breaths. She immediately called 999, telling the operator, "He's not breathing, he's four weeks old, please hurry."
Medical Evidence
Despite efforts from neighbours and paramedics, Atticus died a week later after being transferred from a Somerset hospital to Bristol Royal Infirmary. A medical expert told the jury that the baby's injuries included severe internal trauma to the brain, spinal cord, and ribs, consistent with recent severe head trauma at "the most severe end of the spectrum." The injuries were described as similar to those seen in high-speed traffic accidents or falls from a multi-storey building.
Prosecution's Argument
Prosecutor Charles Row KC argued that Bartlett's "loss of temper and frustration" was "almost certainly fuelled" by the alcohol he had consumed. He stated, "Mr Bartlett can't admit to himself that when he was drunk, in a moment of pure violence, he did something that he will regret for the rest of his life."
Verdict and Sentencing
The jury found Bartlett guilty of murder. He broke down in tears, holding his head in his hands as the verdict was read. He is due to be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Friday, July 24. Ballentyne, initially arrested, was treated as a witness and not charged.
Police Statement
Senior Investigating Officer Det Supt Lorett Spierenburg said: "This is a devastating case in which a very young baby has lost his life as the direct result of a violent and cruel act. The loss of Atticus has had a profound effect on all those who loved him. Tony Bartlett was alone with Atticus when he suffered these catastrophic injuries and the medical evidence gathered during the investigation proves he was solely responsible for causing them, despite his claims of innocence. Our thoughts are very much with Atticus’ family who’ve had to endure a lengthy and complex police investigation, followed by a trial. They’ve shown great dignity and courage throughout."
