A Somerset man has been found guilty of murdering his newborn son while the baby was under intensive hospital care, a case that has sent shockwaves throughout the community. Daniel Gunter, aged 27, was convicted by a jury at Bristol Crown Court after his two-week-old baby, Brendon Staddon, was discovered with injuries described as ‘catastrophic’. The harrowing incident took place at Yeovil District Hospital on 5 March last year, prompting both staff and authorities to launch a highly sensitive investigation.
Jurors heard graphic details of the injuries suffered by Brendon, who had been born prematurely and was being cared for in a special unit. The court was told that Gunter inflicted severe trauma to his son’s head, neck, legs, and jaw. The damage was so extensive that the baby’s skull was reportedly shattered. According to testimony, after attacking Brendon, Gunter stepped outside for a cigarette while nurses frantically tried to revive the child. Despite the desperate efforts from medical staff, Brendon could not be saved.
Throughout the high-profile three-week trial, Brendon’s mother, 23-year-old Sophie Staddon, faced charges alongside Gunter, but was ultimately acquitted of any wrongdoing. Staddon showed visible relief as the verdict was delivered, and the judge confirmed her bail was no longer required. In stark contrast, Daniel Gunter remained expressionless as the guilty verdict was read out in open court, and was told he would remain in custody until a date for sentencing is announced.
The panel of jurors, visibly shaken by the distressing evidence, delivered their verdicts in a sombre courtroom atmosphere. One female juror was seen wiping away tears, reflecting the deep emotional impact of the trial. Mr Justice Swift presided over proceedings, instructing the court that Gunter would be kept in custody pending sentencing, while acknowledging Staddon’s acquittal.
Details of the incident emerged during the trial, painting a picture of escalating risk prior to the tragedy. Brendon’s injuries were discovered after his mother alerted nurses with concerns that her son felt cold. Upon investigation, staff found not only that the child was unresponsive but also exhibited severe, unexplained injuries. The prosecutor, Charles Row KC, described how the infant was extensively bruised, with broken bones and deep scratches observed.
A post-mortem examination later concluded Brendon had suffered multiple non-accidental traumas, most notably fatal injuries to his head consistent with blunt-force impact. Medical experts stated these wounds could not have been accidental, leading investigators to focus attention on those responsible for the child’s care at the time.
Questions about the home life of Brendon’s parents were a core focus. Evidence revealed recurring concerns from social services and relatives regarding Gunter’s conduct. Family members testified to his aggressive behaviour and lack of patience, describing occasions where he reportedly handled his premature son roughly or ignored advice from hospital professionals. The relationship between Gunter and Staddon was described as volatile, with allegations of controlling behaviour and domestic violence cited in court documents.
Social services had involved themselves prior to Brendon’s birth, citing apprehensions about the pair’s ability to provide safe care. The court heard that there had even been plans to remove the child from their custody, prompted by both the couple’s unstable living conditions and their apparent disengagement with hospital staff.
In the aftermath, both parents were interviewed by police. Gunter denied all allegations, stating, “At no stage did I do anything to Brendon… I would never hurt my baby boy.” Staddon similarly maintained her innocence, declaring her love for her son and her lack of involvement. However, for the jury, the weight of forensic and eyewitness evidence amassed during the proceedings proved decisive in convicting Gunter of murder.
This distressing case has reignited debate about safeguarding measures for vulnerable infants in hospital care, as well as the resources available to families under stress. As Daniel Gunter awaits sentencing, questions remain about how warning signs could have been more effectively acted upon to prevent such a tragedy.