IOPC to investigate any ‘missed opportunities’ following the deaths of Kenneth and Bronson Battersby
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is to examine whether there were “any missed opportunities” by Lincolnshire Police prior to the deaths of Kenneth and Bronson Battersby in Skegness.
Mr Battersby and his two-year-old son were found dead in their flat on January 9, two weeks after they were last seen alive on Boxing Day by a neighbour.
It is believed 60-year-old Mr Kenneth had suffered a fatal heart attack days later leaving Bronson with no access to food or water at the flat.
It is understood that the force was twice contacted by a social worker about Bronson’s welfare during the week before the bodies were found.
Following a referral this week from Lincolnshire Police, the IOPC said it has assessed the information received and has now decided that it should conduct an investigation.
Regional Director for the IOPC, Derrick Campbell, said: “The harrowing circumstances in which Kenneth and Bronson Battersby died are truly shocking.
“Our sympathies go out to everyone affected by their sad deaths. It is appropriate we carry out an independent investigation to consider the police response to any prior welfare concerns that were raised.
“We will be examining whether there were any missed opportunities by police to check on Mr Battersby and Bronson sooner.
“We will be in contact with Bronson’s mother and Mr Battersby’s family in due course to explain our role and how our investigation will progress.”