Bronson Battersby: Date of Death Remains Undetermined

A preliminary inquest review concerning a toddler’s death revealed that the precise time of his passing remains undetermined. During the review, held at the Myle Cross Centre in Lincoln, it was disclosed that two-year-old Bronson Battersby and his father, Kenneth Battersby, aged 60, were discovered deceased at a residence in Skegness on January 9. In June, at the commencement of an inquest into the fatalities, Coroner Paul Smith was informed that Bronson succumbed to dehydration subsequent to his father’s death. Jayne Wilkes, the area coroner for Greater Lincolnshire, emphasized the necessity of constructing the most comprehensive timeline possible for both Bronson and his father. The coroner stated, “Bronson’s circumstances are unusual.” She added, “At present we do not have any clear factual basis as to when Bronson passed away,” and further noted, “A key issue at this stage is a clear timeline of Bronson’s death.” Evidence presented at the review indicated that Bronson took selfies on a phone on the morning of December 31 at the apartment, and a witness also reported hearing Mr. Battersby yelling at his son later that evening. A pathology report determined Mr. Battersby’s death resulted from a sudden cardiac event. Nevertheless, a post-mortem examination could not ascertain the duration of his death prior to the discovery of both bodies on January 9. Bronson’s post-mortem examination revealed low levels of body fat and muscle, indicating, at least partially, insufficient nourishment and fluid intake. The coroner informed the court that there was an expectation that witness testimonies and expert assessments, encompassing input from a metabolic expert and a paediatric review, could provide additional clarity regarding the timings of their deaths. A swift review commenced subsequent to the discovery of their bodies. Concurrently, it was disclosed that the family was known to children’s services, and Lincolnshire County Council (LCC) verified that a social worker “had contact” with Mr. Battersby on December 27 and had scheduled a home visit for January 2. Nevertheless, after that appointment was not kept, law enforcement was notified. The social worker also attempted to establish contact on January 4 and made a subsequent attempt five days thereafter. Following a lack of response on the third endeavor, Mr. Battersby’s landlady was contacted and subsequently accessed the residence. Source: Lincolnshire County Council, Lincolnshire Police