A 38-year-old man has been charged with the murder of his one-month-old son.
Tony Bartlett is accused of killing his son, Atticus Bartlett, in Chard, Somerset, on 23 July 2022.
Detective Superintendent Lorett Spierenburg of Avon and Somerset Police said the charge was the result of an “extensive” investigation over two and a half years.
“This is a deeply sad case in which a young baby, who was only a few weeks old, has tragically lost their life,” she said.
“This remains a deeply upsetting time for Atticus’s 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.”
Bartlett appeared at Yeovil Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday and was remanded to appear at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday, Avon and Somerset Police said.
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Ms Spierenburg said she understands the development is likely to cause “a great deal of shock and upset” in Chard and a neighbourhood team will be available for anyone with concerns.
She added: “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’s family, but also could prejudice the future legal proceedings and prevent the defendant from having the right to a fair trial.”
