A Bexhill woman has been found guilty of manslaughter in relation to the death of an 18-month-old boy she was caring for. The young child, Jaxon Syrett, tragically passed away in the hospital on September 24, 2020, after being admitted with severe injuries.
The incident began on September 18, 2020, when emergency services were called to a residence on London Road due to a report of a seriously injured child. Jaxon was immediately transported to the hospital after Shannon Driver, the caregiver and informant, stated that he had slipped in the shower. Driver was looking after Jaxon while his father was at work.
Despite extensive efforts by the hospital staff, Jaxon’s condition did not improve, leading to his tragic death on September 24. Medical examinations revealed significant injuries, with the post-mortem indicating these were non-accidental, consistent with inflicted trauma.
A criminal investigation ensued, during which Jaxon’s family received support from specialist officers. Shannon Driver, a 27-year-old resident of North Road in Bexhill, was arrested and charged with manslaughter, leading to her being remanded in custody.
On January 17, at Lewes Crown Court, Driver was convicted of manslaughter. She is scheduled for sentencing at the same court on March 27.
Following conviction, Jaxon’s family have issued the following statement:
“The tragic loss of Jaxon has changed our lives forever. We will never see Jaxon’s cheeky smile again, nor hear his infectious laugh and will miss every milestone Jaxon had to reach. Jaxon had his whole life ahead of him. We as a family hold and cherish every memory we have of Jaxon.
“We would like to thank everyone who has been involved with this investigation, and in getting a conviction and some kind of justice for our baby. The support we’ve been given in such devastating circumstances has been so appreciated.”
Investigator Dick Hemmings said: “This was an investigation into the most tragic of circumstances.
“No family should have to go through what Jaxon’s have experienced, and I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences for their devastating loss.
“They have shown incredible strength and determination to support this investigation, which faced multiple delays during the court process.
“No judicial outcome can make up for this tragedy, but with this conviction we can look ahead to sentencing and the conclusion of this process.”
