Man and woman charged with murder of baby

By Laura Linham 8th Mar 2024

Yeovil District Hospital (File photo)
Yeovil District Hospital (File photo)

Two individuals have been brought before the court facing serious allegations in connection with the death of a two-week-old infant.

Sophie Staddon, 20, originally from Yeovil, and Daniel Gunter, 25, originally from the Glastonbury area, but now both of No Fixed Address, stand accused of the murder of Brendon Staddon.

The incident occurred at Yeovil District Hospital on 5 March, where Brendon received care.

In addition to the murder charge, both Staddon and Gunter face accusations of causing or allowing the death of the infant.

The court proceeding took place at Taunton Magistrates' Court on 8 March, with both defendants providing basic personal information for the record.

The case was addressed by Presiding Justice Victoria McNiven, who informed Staddon of the transfer to Bristol Crown Court scheduled for 11 March at 10am, both were held in custody until then.

Representatives for both the prosecution and defense were present during the brief hearing, with Avon and Somerset Police having initiated an investigation following a report from hospital staff.

Detective Inspector Mark Newbury, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: "This is a particularly tragic case in which a very young baby has died, and our thoughts are with Brendon's loved ones during this time.

"We have been carrying out inquiries at the hospital this week, and we're grateful to the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust and their staff for their assistance in enabling us to do this."

     

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