A father has appeared in court after being charged with the murder of his one-month-old baby son.
Tony Bartlett of St Andrews Drive, Axminster, has been accused of killing his son Atticus Bartlett, who died on July 23, 2022.
The 38-year-old appeared at Yeovil Magistrates’ Court yesterday, where he was remanded and is due to appear before Bristol Crown Court today.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Superintendent Lorett Spierenburg said the case was ‘deeply sad’ as a baby – only a few weeks old – ‘tragically lost their life’.
‘This is a deeply sad case in which a young baby, who was only a few weeks old, has tragically lost their life,’ Det Supt Spierenburg said.
‘An extensive police investigation has been carried out, led by our Major Crime Investigation Team, over the past two-and-a-half years which has led to Bartlett being charged and appearing in court this week.
‘This remains a deeply upsetting time for Atticus’ family.
‘Our thoughts are with them and we will continue to provide them with specialist support as legal proceedings progress.
‘We would please ask on their behalf that their privacy is respected.’
The Superintendent also said Avon and Somerset Police are providing assistance to the Chard community.
They added: ‘We understand this development will likely cause a great deal of shock and upset in Chard and the local neighbourhood team will be available to assist anyone who has concerns.
‘The full details of what happened will be presented in court during subsequent hearings and therefore we’d please request people are patient and do not speculate on the circumstances at this time.
‘Such speculation will likely not only cause further distress to Atticus’ family, but also could prejudice the future legal proceedings and prevent the defendant from having the right to a fair trial.’