Teacher Accused of Baby’s Murder Pleads with Medics to Save Him

Murder accused teacher begged medics to save – During the trial at Preston Crown Court, a 37-year-old teacher named Jamie Varley has been described as pleading with medical staff to prevent the child’s demise. Varley, who was teaching at a high school, allegedly brought an unconscious 13-month-old boy, Preston Davey, to Blackpool Victoria Hospital after the baby had been found unresponsive. The court was told that Varley rushed to the hospital with the child, who was reportedly not breathing, marking a pivotal moment in the case.

Medical Efforts and Emotional Toll

Emergency responders worked tirelessly for nearly an hour to resuscitate Preston before concluding that further attempts were ineffective. At 19:18 BST on 27 July 2023, the baby was officially pronounced dead. According to testimony, the medical team included specialists who utilized equipment to support the child’s breathing, while paramedics raced to the scene. Simon Crabb, a paramedic present during the incident, recounted the moment he saw Varley carrying the limp child into the hospital’s emergency department.

Crabb described Varley as “hysterical” and observed the teacher shouting, “Don’t let him die! Please don’t let him die.” He noted that the other parent, John McGowan-Fazakerley, was calmer but still visibly shaken, with a “look of terror in his eyes.”

Crabb added that Varley had left the child in the bath during a shower and returned minutes later, at which point Preston was already in critical condition. The paramedic emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the child was “floppy” and unresponsive when Varley handed him over. Despite the frantic efforts, the baby could not be revived, leaving the courtroom in somber contemplation of the events leading to his death.

Alleged Abuse and Physical Evidence

The prosecution has presented a series of allegations against Varley and his partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley. During the four months the child was under their care, it is claimed that Preston was subjected to regular mistreatment. This included physical assaults, sexual abuse, and the creation of indecent images and videos. A post-mortem examination revealed 40 injuries, a detail that has been central to the court’s consideration of the case.

Dr. Wendy Aubrey, a senior anaesthetist involved in the resuscitation attempt, provided critical insights into the medical procedures. She explained that despite efforts to administer oxygen through an intubation process, no water was detected in Preston’s airways or lungs. “There was no water in his lungs,” she noted, suggesting the child’s condition might have been exacerbated by other factors.

Aubrey also described the emotional dynamics among the family members. “I recall one dad quite subdued,” she said, contrasting the behavior of Varley, who was “very dramatic and more dramatic than I have seen parents previously.” She added that Varley was “a bit chaotic,” resisting support from medical staff and continuing to attempt resuscitation even after the breathing tube was in place.

Aubrey’s testimony highlighted the father’s impatience with the process, as he insisted on taking direct action. This included applying chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation despite the team’s instructions. The urgency of the situation and Varley’s emotional state have become focal points in the jury’s deliberation.

Video Evidence and Timeline of Events

As part of the evidence, the court reviewed a video clip Varley had captured four hours prior to the hospital visit. The footage showed Preston being bounced on his grandmother’s knee, with the child smiling and clapping his hands in response to the song “If You’re Happy and You Know It.” This moment of normalcy contrasts sharply with the tragedy that followed.

The prosecution claims that after leaving his grandmother’s house, Varley subjected Preston to a final sexual assault before bringing him to the hospital. While the video serves as a glimpse into the child’s well-being during the early stages of their care, it also underscores the alleged neglect that occurred in the days leading to his death.

Charges and Denials

Varley faces multiple charges, including murder, manslaughter, and sexual assault of a child. Additionally, he is accused of five counts of cruelty to a child, 13 counts of distributing indecent photos, and one count of making an indecent photo. His partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, is charged with allowing the child’s death and with three counts of child cruelty. Both defendants have categorically denied the allegations, asserting that they did not intend harm and were unaware of the extent of the abuse.

Dr. Anthony Kearns, the lead consultant in the accident and emergency department, was also called to testify. He confirmed that the child was completely dry when he arrived at the hospital, contradicting earlier claims of immersion in water. The presence of a properly placed nappy further supported the argument that the child had not been in water for an extended period. Despite these observations, the medical team proceeded with resuscitation efforts, emphasizing the complexity of the case.

Ongoing Trial and Public Support

The trial continues as the jury evaluates the evidence and testimonies from both the prosecution and the defense. The courtroom has become a stage for intense scrutiny, with each detail of the child’s condition and the defendants’ actions under magnifying glass. For those affected by the case, resources such as the BBC Action Line are available to offer assistance and support.

The case has also sparked a broader conversation about child safety, the role of adoptive parents, and the importance of early intervention. As the trial progresses, the public is urged to stay informed and engaged, with additional updates available through BBC Radio Lancashire, Facebook, X, and Instagram. The community remains hopeful for clarity as the story unfolds.