Watchdog to probe cops over 'missed opportunities' to find dead dad and toddler

18 January 2024 , 16:40

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Bronson Battersby was found dead with his dead (Image: Facebook)

Bronson Battersby cops are to be investigated by the police watchdog over "missed opportunities".

The tragic two-year-old was found dead at a property in Skegness, Lincolnshire, along with the body of his father, Kenneth, 60. The dad is thought to have suffered a heart attack in the days after Christmas. Because Bronson was under children’s services care, social workers visited on January 2 from the council, but received no answer.

Two days later they tried again but once more received no answer - it was then that police were called, but it took another five days before the bodies were discovered by the property’s landlady and a social worker on January 9.

Now the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is looking into the "harrowing circumstances" around Kenneth and Bronson’s deaths. They said they would look into whether there "were any missed opportunities".

Derrick Campbell, regional director for the IOPC, said: "The harrowing circumstances in which Kenneth and Bronson Battersby died are truly shocking. Our sympathies go out to everyone affected by their sad deaths.

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"It is appropriate we carry out an independent investigation to consider the police response to any prior welfare concerns that were raised. We will be examining whether there were any missed opportunities by police to check on Mr Battersby and Bronson sooner. We will be in contact with Bronson's mother and Mr Battersby's family in due course to explain our role and how our investigation will progress."

The tragic tot was found dead along with his dad

A rapid review is now being conducted by the council as the local police force referred themselves to the watchdog (Facebook)

The development comes after police confirmed someone broke into the property in the days after the two bodies were found. It was reported that the crook or crooks, who came in through a window, took cash and some medication.

A spokesperson for Lincolnshire Police told the Mirror: "At around 12pm we received a report of a burglary at Prince Alfred Avenue on Friday, 12 January. The incident took place sometime between the 10 January and the 12 January. The offenders are thought to have used a bedroom window to gain entry. Our investigations are ongoing. If you have information which could help us, call 101 and quote the number 24000024117."

Lincolnshire County Council said it was "unlawful" for the social worker to otherwise gain entry, amidst speculation they should have done more. They added they are "devastated". The spokesperson said: "On Tuesday the 9th [the social worker] went round again to see Bronson. The landlady arrived with a key and went inside with the social worker where they found tragically two bodies, which is just awful and devastating for all involved."

Heather Sandy, executive director for children’s services, said: “This was a tragic incident, and we are supporting the family at this difficult time. We are currently carrying out a review of the case alongside partner agencies to better understand the circumstances, and we await the results of the coroner’s investigations as well. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved.”

Kieren Williams