Baby Beau: Fresh evidence may be tested in Mackay father Ayden Jedd Bradshaw’s murder case

The expert who completed an autopsy on a six-month-old baby which led to the boy’s father being hit with a murder charge could change his opinion, opening up a potential last-minute hearing before the trial begins.

Beau Bradshaw and father Ayden Bradshaw, who is charged with murder over his son's death in June 2020.

The forensic pathologist who conducted the autopsy on baby Beau Frank Bradshaw may adjust their opinion after analysing further information recently revealed to them, a court has heard.

Beau’s father, Ayden Jedd Bradshaw, has been charged with murder in relation to Beau’s death. He has pleaded not guilty.

Six-month old Beau was found unresponsive at his East Mackay home on June 2, 2020 and died two days later.

Following his arrest, Mr Bradshaw remained in custody on remand until he was granted bail on strict conditions in December 2022.

More than four years since his death the case is still proceeding through the courts and is listed for trial to start on November 4.

Last month, Crown prosecutor Tiffany Lawrence told a Mackay court the consideration of medical evidence linked to the case was ongoing.

During a pre-trial mention in the Supreme Court in Rockhampton this morning, Crown prosecutor Tiffany Lawrence gave an update relating to a submission from Mr Bradshaw’s lawyers which is still pending an answer.

“A number of conferences were conducted last week with expert witnesses,” she said.

“During the course of that, the forensic pathologist that did the autopsy itself requested some further information from one of the other surgeons involved.

“That was provided to him on Thursday evening.

“Following that conference, the crown is waiting an indication from the pathologist to see if that changes the opinion and that will likely determine the matter in terms of the submission.”

Defence lawyer Scott McLennan said there will “definitely be” some legal arguments if the trial is to proceed.

He said there may be a Basha hearing – a pre-trial hearing where witnesses are cross examined – “in relation to some of these experts and if there is new evidence as well”.

Mr Bradshaw’s matters were adjourned to September 24 for mention.

Originally published as Baby Beau: Fresh evidence may be tested in Mackay father Ayden Jedd Bradshaw’s murder case