Father Jailed for Life After Toddler Son Dies 18 Years Later from Attack
Man Sentenced Over Son’s Death Almost Two Decades After Attack
Alan Bird has been handed a life sentence after a Leeds Crown Court jury found him guilty of murdering his son almost 18 years after the boy’s death. Bird smothered his toddler son Lewis Turner when he was just two years old, leaving him with permanent brain injuries.
The horrific attack took place in Dewsbury in 2001. Bird initially pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and child cruelty, receiving an eight-year sentence but serving only five years.
Young Man Dies Aged 19 From Feeding Tube Infection Linked to Childhood Abuse
Lewis, who was adopted by a loving family, tragically passed away in 2019 at age 19. His death was caused by an infection tied to the feeding tube he required due to Bird’s earlier assault. Investigators launched a fresh murder probe following Lewis’s death, ultimately charging Bird again.
The prosecution argued Bird’s 2001 attack was directly responsible for Lewis’s feeding tube dependency and subsequent early death. The jury agreed, convicting Bird of murder and sentencing him to life imprisonment with a minimum of eight years before parole eligibility.
Detectives and Family Speak Out on Tragic Case
Detective Inspector James Entwistle from Leeds District CID said: “Lewis was ultimately robbed of his life by his own father who should have protected him. Despite the care of adoptive parents, Lewis’s quality of life was devastated by his father’s violence. Bird must take full responsibility.”
Lewis’s adoptive family said: “Lewis is greatly missed. We tried to give him a normal life despite his injuries. He brought us joy, laughter and love. He will always be with us.”
Justice Served After Lengthy Investigation
The case was complex due to the passage of time and expert medical evidence needed, but police and prosecutors worked tirelessly to secure justice. Bird, 48, of Batley, will serve a minimum of eight years in custody before parole consideration.
