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Toddler Murder: Killer Had Warrant for 18 Months
2 Aug
Summary
- Toddler's killer had an active arrest warrant for 18 months.
- Cleveland Police failed to execute the warrant for Simpson's arrest.
- Isabelle suffered 21 fractured bones before her death.
Harrison Simpson, who murdered his girlfriend's two-year-old daughter Isabelle Welsh, had an outstanding arrest warrant for 18 months. Cleveland Police admitted failing to execute the warrant, which was issued in March 2024 after Simpson allegedly breached a non-molestation order. He was wanted for harassing a former partner but was never detained.
Simpson began a relationship with Isabelle's mother, Alexandra Walker, in July 2025. Three months later, he sexually abused and murdered Isabelle at her home in Thornaby. The toddler died from a brain injury in September 2025, with a post-mortem revealing 21 fractured bones and extensive soft tissue injuries.
Walker had previously taken Isabelle to a hospital with a fractured leg, but doctors accepted her explanation. Concerns about Isabelle's welfare were also raised by Walker's mother. Cleveland Police stated they conducted multiple inquiries to locate Simpson and acknowledged the delay in executing the warrant was inadequate. The force has since reviewed its procedures for managing outstanding warrants.
