Forensic Pathologist Gives Key Evidence in Trial Over Death of Toddler Preston Davey

The trial of Jamie Varley and John McGowan-Fazakerley at Preston Crown Court heard extensive forensic evidence this week from a senior Home Office pathologist concerning the death of 18-month-old Preston Davey.

Dr Alison Armour, a consultant forensic pathologist with decades of experience, presented detailed findings from the post-mortem examination carried out after Preston’s death in July 2023. Prosecutors allege the injuries identified point to repeated abuse and non-accidental harm. Both defendants deny all charges against them.

Medical Evidence Challenges Drowning Account

According to evidence heard in court, Dr Armour rejected the explanation that Preston accidentally drowned in a bath, an account previously associated with the defense narrative.

Instead, jurors were told that Dr Armour concluded the child died from acute upper airway obstruction. The court heard this could have resulted from smothering or from an object being inserted into the child’s mouth shortly before death.

The prosecution argues that the medical findings are inconsistent with an accidental incident.

Injuries Described to the Jury

The pathologist outlined multiple injuries discovered during the examination, including bruising to several parts of Preston’s body.

Among the findings discussed in court were:

• bruising to the forehead and mouth
• injuries to the back of the throat
• injuries to the buttocks
• and bleeding identified in the lungs

Dr Armour also told jurors that one circular bruise was considered highly consistent with a human bite mark based on its appearance and shape.

The court further heard allegations that some injuries were consistent with sexual assault occurring shortly before the child’s death.

“Unlike Anything” Seen in Career

During testimony, Dr Armour reportedly told jurors that some of the injuries were unlike anything she had encountered during nearly 40 years of forensic pathology work.

The statement became one of the most closely watched moments of the proceedings, as prosecutors argued it highlighted the severity of the injuries found.

Defense teams for both defendants continue to dispute the allegations and challenge the prosecution’s interpretation of the evidence.

Video Footage Shown in Court

Jurors were also shown footage allegedly recovered from Jamie Varley’s mobile phone.

According to the prosecution, one video recorded weeks before Preston’s death appeared to show the toddler in what Dr Armour described as an unsafe position inside a cot, with potential risk to his airway.

The court heard that later images showed the child with discoloration around the lips, which the pathologist said could indicate reduced oxygen levels.

Prosecutors argue the footage forms part of a broader pattern of alleged neglect and mistreatment. Defense lawyers maintain that the prosecution is drawing conclusions that remain disputed.

Charges Before the Court

Jamie Varley faces charges including:

• murder
• manslaughter
• child cruelty offenses
• assault-related allegations
• and alleged sexual offenses involving a child

John McGowan-Fazakerley faces charges including:

• allowing the death of a child
• child cruelty offenses
• and related allegations concerning Preston’s welfare

Both men deny all charges.

Ongoing Trial

The case has drawn widespread public attention because of the seriousness of the allegations and the age of the child involved.

Legal experts continue to stress the importance of the presumption of innocence during active proceedings, noting that the evidence remains subject to challenge and jury assessment before any verdict is reached.

Further forensic testimony and witness evidence are expected as the trial continues at Preston Crown Court.