Baby's Death: Father Claims 'Bad Fall' on Stairs

A father accused of murdering his eight-month-old baby has told a jury the child died after a "bad fall" down the stairs. Devaun Rose-Turner died in December 2021 after paramedics were called to his parents' flat. His father, Emmanuel Turner, claims he fell while carrying the infant in the dark, stating, "I didn't kill my child." The court heard the baby had suffered "extensive, catastrophic injuries."

Prosecutors allege many of Devaun's injuries were inflicted in the hours before paramedics arrived. Neighbors reported hearing noises, including a "loud thud," arguments, screaming, and a baby crying. The father told the court he and the baby's mother, Shandies Rose, fell asleep with Devaun between them after the alleged fall, and only called emergency services when they woke to find the baby making "gurgling" sounds.

Both Mr. Turner and Ms. Rose deny murder, causing or allowing the death of a child, and causing or allowing serious injury to a child. Mr. Turner stated he did not believe the fall had affected his son. The trial continues, with Ms. Rose yet to give evidence. The couple met in Hackney, east London, in 2019.