Teacher Accused of Murder Confesses to Hospital Staff

Jamie Varley, 37, is on trial accused of murdering 13-month-old Preston Davey after allegedly confessing to medics at Blackpool Victoria Hospital. The court heard Varley arrived at the hospital with the child, who was limp, and made the shocking admission.

Details of the Hospital Arrival

On July 27, 2023, Varley, dressed in red pyjamas and visibly distraught, arrived at the hospital’s A&E department with Preston limp in her arms, followed by her boyfriend, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32. CCTV footage presented in court showed Varley pleading with medical personnel, begging them not to let Preston die.

Witness Accounts from Medical Staff

Paramedic Simon Crabb described Varley as ‘hysterical’ while McGowan-Fazakerley appeared ‘terrified.’ Varley initially claimed Preston fell from a bath seat while she briefly stepped away to change clothes, returning to find the baby face down in the water.

Contradictory Evidence and Allegations

A post-mortem examination contradicted Varley’s account, concluding that Preston died from smothering and an ‘acute upper airway obstruction.’ The prosecution alleges that Varley sexually assaulted Preston earlier that day, leading to his death.

Resuscitation Attempts and Varley's Reaction

Upon arrival, the A&E department was busy, and Preston was immediately placed on a desk for resuscitation. Despite initial success in restoring Preston’s pulse, he suffered another cardiac arrest. After approximately 45 to 50 minutes of CPR, doctors determined Preston could not be revived.

Following the unsuccessful attempts, Varley reportedly refused to accept the outcome, running from the room in distress, shouting and pleading for continued CPR. Dr. Imran Ali stated that Varley was ‘touching the baby and begging for him to wake up,’ and expressed feelings of guilt, saying, ‘I can’t believe this has happened, I won’t accept this, it’s my fault.’

Charges and Ongoing Trial

Varley faces multiple charges, including murder, manslaughter, assault, cruelty to a child, grievous bodily harm, sexual assault, and numerous counts related to the creation and distribution of indecent images of a child. McGowan-Fazakerley denies allowing the death of a child, child cruelty, and sexual assault.

The trial, anticipated to last six to eight weeks, continues as the prosecution presents evidence challenging Varley’s account and highlighting the medical findings. The case centers on conflicting narratives and forensic evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding Preston Davey’s death.