Father Convicted of Murdering Baby Son by Shaking Him to Death in ‘Moment of Pure Violence’ After Consuming Eight Pints of Beer

A tragic case has concluded with a father being found guilty of murdering his infant son by shaking him violently in what prosecutors described as a “moment of pure violence” fueled by alcohol. The young child suffered severe internal trauma to his brain and spinal cord and died in hospital seven days after the incident.

Tony Bartlett has now been convicted of murder and will be sentenced later this month. Bristol Crown Court heard that the killer dad had gone to a comedy club with Atticus’ mother Evelyn Ballentyne in July 2022 for their first night out since the baby was born.

While out, Bartlett consumed eight and a half pints of beer before returning home where Evelyn’s parents had been looking after Atticus. Prosecutor Charles Row KC said his “loss of temper and frustration” was “almost certainly fuelled” by the alcohol.

He added: “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.”

Evelyn told police that once her parents left, she went upstairs to remove her makeup — leaving Bartlett and Atticus on the sofa. When she returned a few minutes later, the mother heard Atticus “make two big gulps as if he was trying to breathe but couldn’t.”

Evelyn then took the baby but he had “gone all floppy” and was not breathing. Jurors heard she started to scream, gave the baby back to Bartlett and tried to get help from the neighbors.

The mother also called emergency services and told them there was a foamy substance and milk coming out of the baby’s nose. She said: “My baby’s not breathing, can you please come. He’s not breathing, he’s four weeks old, please hurry.”

A medical expert testified that Atticus’ injuries were consistent with those usually sustained in “high speed traffic accidents or falling from a multi-storey building.” Paediatric neurosurgeon Amedeo Calisto found he suffered a “significant head trauma” where veins at the top of the head had been “stretched and broken.”

He told jurors that no “natural cause would have caused this” and “normal or rough handling of children” would not have resulted in Atticus’ injuries.

Evelyn was originally arrested but was not charged with any criminal offence and gave evidence at Bartlett’s trial. The father claimed he gave Atticus a bottle but he wouldn’t drink it. He also said he was “rubbing and patting” Atticus and bouncing him on his knee but thought he was gassy.

Bartlett said a few moments later he released some gas and made a gulping sound “almost like it was his last breath.” When asked by officers if he caused the injuries, he said: “I don’t think so, no. I didn’t shake him.”

Bartlett will be sentenced on July 24.

Detective Superintendent 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’s family who’ve had to endure a lengthy and complex police investigation, followed by a trial. They’ve shown great dignity and courage throughout.”

The tragic case has highlighted the devastating consequences of shaking a baby, even for brief moments. Medical experts have long warned about the extreme dangers of shaking infants, whose heads are disproportionately large and whose neck muscles are not yet strong enough to support them.

The internal trauma caused by shaking can lead to bleeding in the brain, damage to the spinal cord, and other life-threatening injuries. In Atticus’ case, the injuries proved fatal despite medical intervention.

Bartlett’s consumption of alcohol appears to have played a significant role in the incident according to prosecutors. The combination of alcohol and frustration over disciplining the baby created conditions that led to this moment of violence with tragic results.

The family had been enjoying what was supposed to be a celebratory night out — their first since Atticus’ birth. Instead, it ended in unimaginable loss and the beginning of a long legal process.

Evelyn’s quick actions in calling for help and attempting to save her son demonstrate a mother’s desperate efforts to protect her child even in the midst of crisis. Her decision to give evidence at the trial shows courage in the face of profound grief.

The case has raised awareness about the dangers of shaking babies and the importance of seeking help when feeling overwhelmed as a parent. Many organizations provide support for new parents struggling with the stresses of caring for infants.

For the surviving family members, the loss of Atticus represents a permanent void that will never be filled. The pain of losing a child in such circumstances is compounded by the knowledge that it was caused by someone who should have been protecting him.

The legal system will now determine Bartlett’s sentence, taking into account all the evidence presented during the trial. The maximum sentence for murder in the UK is life imprisonment, though the exact term will be decided by the judge based on the specific circumstances of the case.

This tragic case serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of patience and support for new parents. The loss of young Atticus has affected not only his immediate family but has touched the wider community as well.

As the family begins the long process of grieving and healing, they will need support from loved ones and professional services to navigate their loss. The community’s thoughts remain with them during this incredibly difficult time.

The case also highlights the critical importance of understanding the dangers of shaking babies. Educational campaigns about safe handling of infants and recognizing signs of frustration can help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Bartlett’s conviction brings a measure of justice for Atticus, but nothing can restore the young life that was taken too soon. His memory will live on through the love of his family and the awareness raised by this heartbreaking case.

The courtroom proceedings have been difficult for all involved, particularly for Evelyn who had to relive the events while giving evidence. Her strength throughout the process has been noted by those following the case.

As sentencing approaches, the focus will shift to ensuring that appropriate justice is served while continuing to support the family through their grief. The loss of a child is a pain that never fully goes away, but the love and memories remain.

This case will likely prompt continued discussions about parental stress, alcohol’s role in domestic incidents, and the need for better support systems for new families. The tragic death of young Atticus should serve as a catalyst for positive change in how society addresses these issues.

The family’s private tribute during the committal service reflects their deep love for Alex and the pain of their loss. Their public statements show both strength and vulnerability as they navigate this difficult journey.

The broader community’s response to the case has included expressions of sympathy and calls for greater awareness about infant safety. Many have shared their own experiences with parenting stress and the importance of seeking help when needed.

As the legal process concludes with sentencing, the focus will return to honoring Atticus’ memory and supporting his family through their grief. His short life touched many, and his loss will be felt for years to come.

The case serves as a tragic reminder that moments of frustration can have irreversible consequences. The importance of patience, support, and understanding in parenting cannot be overstated, particularly during the challenging early months with a newborn.

For the Hughes family, the pain of losing Alex will be a part of their lives forever. Their courage in facing this loss publicly while maintaining their privacy in other aspects deserves respect and support from the community.

The funeral brought together many whose lives had been touched by Alex, demonstrating the impact he had in his 38 years. His contributions to football and his role as a family man will be remembered by those who knew him best.

As the family begins the long process of healing, they will carry Alex’s memory with them always. The love and support shown during the funeral provides some comfort during this most difficult time.

The broader football community has rallied around the Hughes family, offering condolences and support as they grieve their loss. The presence of so many notable figures at the funeral reflects the respect and affection felt for both Alex and his father Mark.

This tragic loss serves as a reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of cherishing time with loved ones. Alex Hughes’ memory will live on through the lives he touched and the work he accomplished in his too-short time on earth.