A mother has been found to have caused the death of her eight-year-old son by lacing his blackcurrant juice with methadone and morphine. Louise Cameron, from Billingham, left a chilling note for her family over the weekend of September 13 and 14, stating she was "not dying without him."
Discovery of the tragedy
Teesside Crown Court heard that Cameron's sister grew worried after failing to reach her that weekend. She visited the house on Monday, September 15, ahead of a planned call from Cameron's social worker. Upon arrival, she found her sister lying in bed alongside Rhys, who was already dead. The jury heard that Cameron appeared "out of it" and may have attempted to take a fatal overdose herself, reports Teesside Live.
Background and strain
A family member told police that Cameron had been under considerable strain during a pub meal the previous Friday, when Rhys, who was autistic, "had a meltdown." The relative revealed that Cameron had hoped to speak with her social worker during a visit that week, but claimed the professional had "left early" when Rhys was crying "because the television wasn't working."
Hospital admission
At the University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton, Cameron reportedly told staff: "I've just murdered Rhys. I didn't want to have to stab him or drown him or hurt him."
Court proceedings
The jury spent less than an hour on Thursday morning deciding whether Cameron carried out the act that caused Rhys' death. Judge Heather Williams said that Cameron will next appear in court on Thursday, June 18.
Police statement
Cleveland Police Superintendent Deb Fenny said: "This is a truly tragic case which has resulted in the devastating loss of a young child who was clearly loved by so many. Our thoughts remain firmly with Rhys' family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
"We hope that today's outcome begins to provide the family with some answers about what happened and offers a degree of support as they continue to come to terms with their loss. I would also like to recognise and commend the family for the immense strength and resilience they have shown throughout these proceedings, having had to listen to the deeply distressing circumstances surrounding Rhys' death."
