BURNTWOOD PARENTS LUKE MORGAN AND EMMA COLE SENTENCED FOR TYLER MORGAN'S TRAGIC DEATH

In a heartbreaking case that has shocked the community of Burntwood, parents Luke Morgan and Emma Cole have been sentenced to a combined total of 13 years in prison following the tragic death of their nine-week-old son, Tyler Morgan. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about the circumstances leading to Tyler’s death, which included severe injuries such as fractured ribs, bite marks, and facial bruising.

On April 29, 2014, emergency services were called to the couple’s former residence on Sunnymead Road in Burntwood after Luke Morgan reported that he had kissed his son’s forehead and noticed it felt unusually cool. Concerned, paramedics transported Tyler to Walsall Manor Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The autopsy and subsequent investigations uncovered a series of injuries that painted a grim picture of neglect and abuse.

Tyler’s body bore evidence of significant trauma, including three fractured ribs, a bite mark on his forearm, and marks on both sides of his face as well as on the bridge of his nose. The injuries suggested that he had been subjected to forceful physical harm, with one of the injuries being a bite mark that was described as 'probable' by investigators. The court heard that there was a notable delay—up to an hour—before emergency services were contacted, raising questions about the immediate response of the parents.

During the trial, it was revealed that both Morgan and Cole had been drinking alcohol prior to the incident. Emma Cole admitted to consuming three large glasses of wine, while Luke Morgan acknowledged drinking nine cans of lager. Witnesses testified that the couple had been arguing and crying in the hours leading up to Tyler’s hospital admission, indicating a tense and possibly chaotic environment in the household.

Further details from the court indicated that Tyler had previously been subjected to neglectful treatment, including being bathed in cold water and having lemon juice applied to his lips, which added to the evidence of ongoing mistreatment.

The prosecution argued that one of the parents unlawfully caused Tyler’s death by smothering him with significant force, leaving marks on his face, while the other parent failed to protect him from harm. The court found that Luke Morgan was responsible for causing or allowing Tyler’s death through smothering and possibly compressing his chest, leading to the facial bruising and rib fractures. Emma Cole was found to have failed in her duty to protect her son, despite being aware of the risks.

Judge Michael Chambers QC delivered the sentences, stating that Morgan was sentenced to eight years for causing or allowing Tyler’s death, with an additional five years for child cruelty, to run concurrently. Emma Cole received a five-year sentence for causing or allowing the death, along with a two-year concurrent sentence for child cruelty.

Following the sentencing, Tyler’s grandparents issued a heartfelt statement, describing him as a “beautiful baby boy” and expressing their profound grief. They shared how the tragedy has torn their family apart and emphasized the devastating impact of Tyler’s loss, which they said would never be fully healed.

The court’s findings underscored the tragic consequences of neglect and violence within the household, highlighting the importance of child protection and the devastating effects when it fails. The case remains a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and intervention in situations where vulnerable children are at risk.