Son guilty of leaving mum to die in bathroom
Stewart Irwin has been convicted of manslaughter after failing to provide care for his 74-year-old mother, who died after lying on their bathroom floor for two weeks. Despite her deteriorating condition, Irwin continued to withdraw her money and purchase alcohol.
Why it matters
This case underscores the tragic consequences of elder neglect and the legal responsibilities of caregivers.
Image source, Supplied Image caption, Stewart Irwin was found guilty of the manslaughter of his 74-year-old mother Veronica
A man who failed to help his 74-year-old mother as she lay for two weeks slowly dying on their bathroom floor has been convicted of her manslaughter.
Carlisle Crown Court was told paramedics, who attended the flat in the city where Stewart Irwin and his mother Veronica lived, found the pensioner unconscious, semi-naked and malnourished while lying in a recovery-type position.
Irwin, 56, finally dialled 999 on 28 July 2023 reporting that his mother's skin had "started to turn blue", had been "refusing help", was "scaring the hell out of me" and was "one of them stubborn old women".
Jurors unanimously found Irwin guilty of manslaughter. He was bailed ahead of sentencing on 11 September.
Warning: This story contains descriptions of injuries some readers may find distressing.
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