Blackpool Hospital’s Troubling Pattern: Two Toddler Murders, One Week Apart

A Troubling Pattern Emerges

In a disturbing revelation, Blackpool Victoria Hospital finds itself at the center of two tragic toddler murders, occurring within a week of each other.

The first case involves 13-month-old Preston Davey, who was sexually and physically abused by his adoptive father, Jamie Varley, before his death on July 27, 2023. Varley’s trial has sparked public outrage, prompting an independent review of the actions taken by various agencies prior to Preston’s death.

However, just days before Preston’s final visit to the hospital, another toddler, Damion Russell, was seen in the same A&E department.

A Missed Opportunity

Damion, aged two, was later killed by his father, Daniel Hardcastle, in August 2023. During Hardcastle’s sentencing hearing, the judge revealed that the little boy was found covered in injuries, including an adult bite mark.

The case of Damion raises concerns as hospital staff had previously noticed a bruise on his head but failed to question his father about its cause. This oversight was deemed a deviation from expected practice by the Blackpool Safeguarding Children Partnership.

A Call for Inquiries

Hannah Joy Hocking, a friend of Damion’s biological mother, advocates for a comprehensive inquiry that includes both Preston and Damion’s cases. She believes that while Preston’s story has gained significant attention, Damion’s case deserves equal scrutiny.

The hospital trust has acknowledged the need to strengthen practices and reassure families. They are implementing measures to ensure thorough examinations and confident questioning by staff, especially in the Emergency Department.

A Community’s Call to Action

Blackpool South’s MP Chris Webb and Fylde MP Andrew Snowden have joined the call for a public inquiry, focusing on potential safeguarding failures linked to Preston Davey’s case.

As the community grapples with these tragic events, the focus shifts towards learning from these incidents and implementing changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The hospital’s response and the community’s demand for accountability offer a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and continuous improvement in child protection.