The trial of two men accused in connection with the death of 13-month-old Preston Davey has heard emotional evidence about the final months of the toddler’s life.
Preston had been living with Jamie Varley and John McGowan-Fazakerley as part of an adoption placement when he died in July 2023. The little boy was taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Addressing jurors during closing speeches, prosecutor Peter Wright KC said the Crown’s case was that Preston’s death did not occur in isolation but followed a series of alleged incidents that raised serious concerns about his welfare. He described the circumstances as deeply troubling and urged jurors to consider the evidence as a whole.
The court heard that Preston was described as a healthy child before being placed with the couple. Prosecutors allege that over the following weeks he experienced unexplained injuries, bruising and medical episodes that should have prompted greater concern.
Jurors were told that Preston suffered seizures on multiple occasions before his death, including on the day he collapsed. The prosecution argued that the pattern of events, together with other medical findings, pointed to more than an unfortunate coincidence.
The court also heard allegations that Varley was caring for Preston when the child’s condition suddenly deteriorated. Prosecutors said evidence presented during the trial raised questions about the response in the crucial moments before emergency assistance was sought.
In addition, the prosecution challenged explanations given about how Preston sustained certain injuries and how the fatal incident unfolded. Jurors were told they would need to carefully assess the competing accounts presented during the trial.
Varley denies charges including murder, manslaughter, grievous bodily harm, sexual assault, child cruelty and offences relating to indecent images. McGowan-Fazakerley denies causing or allowing the death of a child, sexual assault and child cruelty.
The prosecution further alleges that McGowan-Fazakerley was aware of risks to Preston’s wellbeing but failed to take appropriate action. Both men deny wrongdoing.
As the trial continues, the allegations remain unproven and are matters for the jury alone to determine. Defence lawyers are expected to continue presenting their final arguments before jurors begin deliberations.
At the heart of the case is a young child whose life ended far too soon. Preston’s death has prompted profound sadness, with the court now tasked with deciding whether criminal responsibility lies behind the loss of a little boy who never had the chance to grow up.
