**Father Jailed for Life After Inflicting Fatal Injuries on Newborn**

A father has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the brutal killing of his two-week-old son, Brendon Staddon, while he was in a special care baby unit. Daniel Gunter, 27, inflicted catastrophic injuries on the infant, which included severe trauma to the head, neck, legs, and jaw. The tragic incident occurred on March 3, 2024, at Yeovil District Hospital.

During the trial at Bristol Crown Court, it was revealed that Gunter left his son in a cot after causing injuries that were described as akin to those sustained from a fall from a multi-storey building. After the assault, he walked out of the hospital for a cigarette, leaving medical staff to attempt resuscitation on the critically injured child.

Mr Justice Swift, who presided over the case, stated that Brendon was born prematurely but was otherwise healthy. He described the injuries as appalling, detailing how Brendon suffered multiple fractures and significant internal bleeding. The judge noted, "Brendon’s death was the result of catastrophic injuries, all of which you inflicted in the early hours of March 3."

The court heard that medical experts testified about the nature of the injuries, which included a shattered skull and a broken neck. The prosecution suggested that the injuries could have been caused by Gunter swinging Brendon by his legs, leading to excessive movement of the head and multiple impacts against a hard surface.

Gunter's former partner, Sophie Staddon, 21, was acquitted of causing or allowing the death of a child. The jury's verdict was met with visible emotion from jurors, highlighting the gravity of the case.

The court was informed that hospital staff discovered Brendon’s injuries after Staddon alerted them that her son was cold. Upon examination, they found that he had suffered severe trauma, including a crushed skull and extensive bruising. Despite efforts to revive him, Brendon was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Prosecutor Charles Row KC explained that concerns had been raised by social services and family members regarding the couple's lack of emotional warmth towards Brendon. Witnesses reported instances of Gunter displaying anger towards the infant during hospital visits, and he had previously disregarded medical advice by overstimulating Brendon and removing necessary medical equipment.

A post-mortem examination confirmed that Brendon died from blunt force trauma to the head, with multiple non-accidental injuries. Mr Justice Swift sentenced Gunter to a minimum of 20 years in prison, emphasising the severity of the crime and the profound impact on the child's life. The case has raised significant concerns about child welfare and the responsibilities of parents in caring for vulnerable infants.