**Grandparents Accused of Neglecting Collapsed Toddler by Visiting Supermarket Instead of Seeking Medical Care**
A murder trial underway at Mold Crown Court has heard disturbing testimony in the case of Ethan Ives-Griffiths, a two-year-old boy who died following what has been characterised as “gross neglect” by those entrusted with his care. The jury was told that after Ethan collapsed, his grandparents chose to take him to a Tesco supermarket rather than a doctor, a decision that a consultant paediatrician described as “incomprehensible”.
Ethan tragically passed away on 16 August 2021 at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, two days after sustaining injuries believed to have occurred at his grandparents’ home in Garden City, Deeside. The trial, now in its eighth day, centres on Michael Ives, 47, and Kerry Ives, 46, both charged with the murder of their grandson. Ethan’s mother, Shannon Ives, 28, also faces allegations of causing or allowing the death of a child, as well as cruelty to a child under 16. All three deny the charges brought against them.
Testimony delivered by Dr Sarah Dixon, a consultant paediatrician, highlighted the severe extent of Ethan’s suffering. Dr Dixon informed the court that Ethan had sustained at least 40 separate external injuries, injuries described as similar to those seen in victims of high-speed vehicle accidents. Dr Dixon noted the “very high number of bruises” and underlined that Ethan’s injuries, including serious head trauma and abdominal damage, strongly suggested non-accidental, inflicted harm — the result of blunt-force impacts.
In a detailed account, Dr Dixon also drew attention to the toddler’s severely low weight. “Ethan was very underweight with a body mass index (BMI) of only 11.8, perilously low for a child of his age,” she testified. Statistically, Dr Dixon said, more than 99% of boys Ethan’s age would weigh more. According to her expertise, such a low BMI endangers the chemical equilibrium necessary for heart function, placing Ethan at high risk of critical illness or death.
The prosecution alleges that the fatal head injury occurred on 14 August 2021, yet CCTV and medical examinations suggested Ethan may have suffered traumatic injuries as early as ten days before his death. Video footage reportedly showed Ethan trampolining despite an earlier suspected head injury, which Dr Dixon suggested may have further compromised his health and reflexes.
Perhaps most striking in Dr Dixon’s expert assessment was her view on the grandparents’ and mother’s actions following Ethan’s collapse. She asserted that capable adults in their position should have immediately sought medical help from a GP or emergency services, rather than taking matters into their own hands. Dr Dixon speculated that their failure to do so may have stemmed from a reluctance to expose possible child abuse to medical professionals.
The defence, led by David Elias KC for Michael Ives, queried whether the injuries may have been accidental. He referenced research indicating that bruising is common in toddlers capable of walking and questioned whether injuries such as a chipped tooth or torn frenulum may have had innocent explanations. While Dr Dixon acknowledged the possibility of some accidental falls, she maintained that Ethan’s high number and combination of injuries were inconsistent with standard childhood mishaps, particularly given the context of his overall poor health.
As the proceedings continue, the local community waits anxiously for the outcome of a case that has sent shockwaves through Flintshire and beyond. The trial is expected to further probe the actions and motivations of Ethan’s family, as the court seeks to unravel how such tragic neglect could have unfolded in a seemingly ordinary home.
The defendants all continue to deny any wrongdoing, and the trial remains ongoing. The case highlights broader questions about child welfare, the responsibilities of carers, and the vital importance of swift medical intervention in safeguarding vulnerable children.