Father Jailed for Life Over Baby Son’s Horrific Death
A judge today branded the murder of nine-week-old Hunter by his father Leon Mathias as “nothing short of grotesque.” Mathias, 34, was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 16 years behind bars.
Baby Dies After ‘Truly Horrifying’ Attack During Bath Time
Hunter collapsed at home in Barnsley on the evening of 30 November 2018 while in his father’s care. Despite frantic efforts by hospital staff, the little boy died three days later from severe brain injuries.
Mrs Justice Lambert described Mathias’s actions as “truly horrifying and difficult to comprehend.” The court heard how baby Hunter suffered multiple fractures and bruising alongside his fatal brain injuries.
Four-Year Investigation Ends in Murder Conviction
After a lengthy and complex investigation, Mathias was found guilty by a majority jury at Sheffield Crown Court on 30 January. Fourteen medical experts testified about the extent of Hunter’s injuries during the trial.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Oughton praised the investigation team, saying, “We have been fighting for justice for Hunter for over four years. The sentence reflects the horror of Mathias’s actions.”
Mathias’s Arrest and Court Proceedings
- First arrested December 2018, bailed, then rearrested October 2019
- Charged with murder and Section 18 assault in February 2021
- Refused to comment during police interviews
DCI Oughton added, “We will never know exactly what happened during Hunter’s bath time, but we know he suffered catastrophic injuries at the hands of his father.”
