Tyla Wharmby convicted of murder after baby Hunter’s death in London hospital

A London court delivered a murder conviction on 29 October 2023 after a three‑month‑old baby, identified as Hunter, died in a London hospital on 15 July 2022. The infant, originally from Ramsgate, Kent, was taken to a local hospital early that morning, then transferred to a London facility when doctors identified a fractured skull and extensive brain swelling.

Arrest and charges

Police arrested Tyla Wharmby, 22, on the day of the incident. MyLondon reported that Wharmby had been responsible for feeding the baby overnight and initially told officers he found Hunter unwell before contacting the mother. Subsequent investigation showed those statements were false and that Wharmby had deliberately shaken the child.

In February 2023, Kent Police charged Wharmby with murder and with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, as confirmed by the Crown Prosecution Service. The trial, heard at the Central Criminal Court, concluded with the jury returning a guilty verdict on all counts.

Investigation findings

Detective Inspector Adam Marshall said the investigative team meticulously examined forensic evidence, medical reports and witness statements. As reported by MyLondon, the team’s work exposed a pattern of deception by Wharmby and proved that the fatal injuries resulted from violent shaking rather than an accidental fall.

Marshall added that while no outcome could erase the family’s loss, the conviction provides a measure of accountability. He praised the victim’s relatives for supplying vital evidence despite their grief.

Next steps for sentencing

The court has not yet announced a sentencing date. Legal commentators expect a hearing later in 2024, at which Wharmby could face a life term with a minimum tariff, reflecting the seriousness of murder and GBH with intent. The family will be notified of the date and may make a victim impact statement.