Family of Baby Murdered by Father in Hospital Speaks Out: "We Have Been Robbed of a Life of Memories"

The family of a two-week-old baby murdered by his father inside a hospital special care unit has spoken out in heartbreak, calling for answers and justice after a court found Daniel Gunter, 27, guilty of murder.

Brendon Staddon, born prematurely on February 20, 2024, died at Yeovil District Hospital after sustaining what prosecutors described as "catastrophic injuries"—including a crushed skull, broken neck, fractured limbs, and bruises from head to toe. His father, Daniel Gunter, denied any wrongdoing, but was convicted after a harrowing three-week trial at Bristol Crown Court. Brendon’s mother, Sophie Staddon, 21, was acquitted of all charges.

In an emotional statement following the verdict, Brendon’s grandfather, Simon Gunter, described the baby as “beautiful” and a “little fighter.”

“We have been robbed of a life of memories,” he said. “We won’t get to see his first steps, hear his first words, or watch him grow. He will never be replaced.”

While the jury delivered the verdicts, one member in tears, family members expressed deep frustration over the circumstances that allowed the tragedy to occur, questioning why known risks weren’t addressed sooner.

Court testimony revealed a disturbing history of violence and neglect. Social services had planned to remove Brendon from his parents' care at birth due to unstable housing and Gunter’s control over Ms Staddon. Witnesses described Gunter as physically rough, verbally abusive, and disregardful of medical advice, often removing Brendon from his incubator and pulling out feeding tubes without permission.

One nurse testified that Brendon was overstimulated to the point of distress. Family members, including Gunter’s own aunt, observed him handling the baby aggressively during hospital visits.

“I felt like he had no patience,” said Louise Besica, Gunter’s aunt. “He was really rough with how he was putting him in his baby grow.”

Authorities had also expressed concern over Sophie Staddon's mental and physical health, her lack of autonomy, and the couple’s refusal to engage with services.

On March 5, 2024, Ms Staddon alerted staff that Brendon “felt cold.” Nurses rushed to the scene but found the baby unresponsive. Gunter, meanwhile, had gone outside for a cigarette. Medical staff were unable to save Brendon’s life. He was declared dead shortly after.

Both parents were arrested outside the hospital. Neither gave evidence during the trial. Gunter told police he did “nothing” to cause harm to his son, and Staddon insisted, “I love him. He was my everything.”

Assistant Prosecutor Charles Row KC described Brendon’s injuries as consistent with blunt force trauma, saying plainly:

“His head had been crushed so as to shatter his skull.”

Detective Chief Inspector Nadine Partridge, who led the investigation, said the case was one of the most distressing she had encountered.

“There wasn’t a part of Brendon’s body that wasn’t bruised or broken,” she said. “He was failed in life. In death, justice is the only protection we can still offer him.”

The Somerset NHS Foundation Trust has confirmed that a child safeguarding review is underway and will be published in the autumn. A spokesperson called the case “incredibly distressing” and offered condolences to Brendon’s extended family.

Daniel Gunter, of no fixed address, will be sentenced at a later date.