ON
← Back to feed
Baby safely delivered 30 minutes after mother died in nine-storey fall
United Kingdom🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive14 days ago

Baby safely delivered 30 minutes after mother died in nine-storey fall

A pregnant woman named Emma Atkinson, 38, died after falling from a ninth-floor window in Leeds on October 22, 2024. An inquest revealed that she was seven months pregnant at the time of the incident. Paramedics pronounced her dead upon arrival, and her body was transported to the hospital, where an emergency cesarean section was performed. Her baby girl survived the fall with minor injuries, including a punctured lung and a broken leg, and is now 21 months old. The inquest concluded that Atkinson deliberately jumped from the window but could not determine whether she intended to end her life. The coroner noted factors like her recent mental health struggles and concerns over potential legal issues influenced the decision. Family members expressed conflicting views, with some believing she intended to take her own life, while others claimed she would never harm her children.

A man described as "pure evil" by his former partner has died in prison less than two years after being sentenced for serious crimes against her. Lee Mercer, 45, was incarcerated following a conviction for intentional strangulation, assault by beating, making threats to kill, and criminal damage. His sentence was handed down in December 2024, and he passed away while serving it at HMP Wymott near Leyland on July 14, 2026. Mercer had previously subjected his ex-girlfriend to severe physical and psychological trauma, including threatening to kill her and her children during two separate attacks. Mercer, from Skelmersdale, was found guilty of multiple charges after a trial at Preston Crown Court. The court heard that the then 44-year-old targeted his ex-partner during two incidents spaced four days apart. In both cases, he strangled her and issued explicit threats to take her life. He also warned her that he would harm her children and asked her to decide which child would be the first target. These actions left deep emotional scars on the victim, who described the experience as living in hell. In a victim impact statement, the woman recounted the profound effect Mercer's actions had on her life. She described suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), experiencing sleepless nights filled with screams and tears, and feeling isolated from her previous social circle. She described Mercer as "pure evil" and noted that even though he could no longer reach her physically, the fear remained. She felt guilty for not adequately protecting her children and struggled with the psychological aftermath of the ordeal. Mercer's death in custody has prompted an independent investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman. An inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his death has commenced, with the final findings to be published once the inquest concludes. The exact cause of his death remains under scrutiny, and the results of the investigation could provide more clarity on the events leading to his demise. The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by victims of domestic abuse and the complex nature of justice systems dealing with such crimes. Mercer's actions were not only physically harmful but also deeply psychologically damaging, leaving lasting effects on the victim's well-being. His death raises questions about the effectiveness of the legal system in addressing such cases and ensuring the safety of those affected. The incident involving Mercer is distinct from another recent case involving Patricia Hewitt, a woman with schizophrenia who was given a suspended sentence for killing a disabled woman. Hewitt's case underscores the complexities of handling mentally ill individuals within the criminal justice system. Despite her mental health struggles, Hewitt was found guilty of manslaughter due to diminished responsibility. However, her family expressed disappointment with the outcome, believing that a punitive measure might have been appropriate. In a separate incident, Ashlyn Castro, the girlfriend of footballer Jude Bellingham, encountered difficulties with her mother, Tina, who suffers from schizophrenia. The situation escalated when Tina allegedly attacked Ashlyn in a hotel parking lot in Henderson, Nevada. Police bodycam footage captured the incident, showing Tina being questioned by officers and denying the attack. Ashlyn provided a detailed account of the altercation, describing how her mother lashed out after realizing she had booked the wrong hotel room. The incident led to Tina being fined for domestic battery, although she has since failed to pay the fine and faces contempt of court charges. These cases illustrate the varied and often challenging interactions between individuals with mental health conditions and the legal system. Each scenario presents unique challenges, requiring careful consideration of both the individual's mental state and the potential risks posed to others. As investigations continue into Mercer's death and the outcomes of similar cases unfold, the broader implications for justice and mental health care remain subjects of discussion and concern.

Go to the primary sources (3)

The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.

11 reports

Daily Mirror logoDaily MirrorIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 8516 days ago
'Pure evil' man who vowed to kill ex dies in prison less than two years after being jailed

Lee Mercer, a 44-year-old man from Skelmersdale, UK, was sentenced to four years and seven months in prison in December 2024 for intentionally strangling his ex-girlfriend, making threats to kill her and her children, and causing criminal damage. The court heard that Mercer attacked his victim during two separate incidents within four days, threatening to kill both her and her children. In a victim impact statement, the survivor described feeling trapped in 'hell,' stating that Mercer referred to himself as 'the devil' and called her a 'slag.' She reported severe trauma, including PTSD, nightmares, and social withdrawal. Mercer died in custody at HMP Wymott on July 14, 2026, at age 45. An independent investigation into his death has been initiated by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the incident through the lens of domestic abuse and criminal behavior, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the lasting psychological impact on the victim. While the legal outcome is presented neutrally, the language used ('pure evil,' 'devil') carries moral judgment that is傾

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reflects the details from the primary source document, including Lee Mercer's conviction, the nature of the offenses, and the victim's impact statement. It provides a concise summary of the key facts without adding new or conflicting information.

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the facts without overt bias or emotional language. It focuses on the legal proceedings and the victim's experience without injecting personal opinion or judgment.

The Independent logoThe IndependentIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8017 days ago
Baby delivered half an hour after pregnant mum died in 10-storey tower block fall

A pregnant woman, Emma Atkinson, fell from a tenth-floor window at Shakespeare Towers in Leeds on October 22, 2024, resulting in her death but allowing her unborn child to survive. The coroner noted that while the fall was intentional, the woman's intent, whether it was suicide or an accident, could not be definitively determined. According to the inquest, Atkinson visited her father on the ninth floor, opened the window, and then jumped. Her father stated she claimed she was only seeking 'fresh air.' CCTV footage showed her falling without appearing distressed. Paramedics attempted to save her life primarily to deliver the baby, which was successfully born via emergency Caesarean section. The coroner acknowledged Atkinson's history of mental health struggles and recent legal issues but found no evidence of third-party involvement or suspicious circumstances.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a tragic incident involving a personal tragedy and medical procedures, with no direct political implications or commentary. It presents factual information from the inquest and does not exhibit any clear ideological framing or bias.

Why factuality (90): This article presents a comprehensive account of the case, including the inquest findings, the delivery of the baby, and the coroner's conclusions. It includes specific details such as the location, time, and medical procedures, matching the information from other sources. The factual content is cle

Why objectivity (80): The tone is professional and balanced, presenting both the tragic nature of the event and the legal findings without overt emotional bias. It maintains neutrality in discussing the coroner's conclusion about intent.

BBC News (UK) logoBBC News (UK)State / PublicProgressiveFactual 90Objective 8023 days ago
Elderly victim of 'cruel' carer can't be left alone after being 'traumatised'

An 81-year-old woman, Elizabeth Anne Shipton, remains traumatized after being abused by her caregiver Louise Harris, who was jailed for three months for shouting abusive remarks at her. The incident was captured on video surveillance installed by Elizabeth’s family to monitor her health. Despite the abuse, the family cannot appeal the sentence due to the unduly lenient sentence scheme, which limits appeals to specific crimes. The Crown Prosecution Service dropped charges of attempted robbery, citing insufficient evidence. Elizabeth’s daughter, Tracy Faram Shipton, expressed frustration over the short sentence and the inability to seek justice. Harris, a recovering alcoholic, later damaged property and threatened Elizabeth, prompting police intervention.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the situation as a failure of the justice system to adequately address domestic abuse, emphasizing the trauma suffered by the elderly victim and criticizing the leniency of the sentence. While the legal process is described objectively, the focus on the emotional impact and the un

Why factuality (90): The article accurately describes the incident involving Emma Atkinson, including the inquest findings and the survival of her child. It matches the primary source document's details about the fall and the medical response.

Why objectivity (80): The article maintains a relatively neutral tone, presenting the facts without excessive emotional language. However, it slightly emphasizes the tragic aspect of the event, which may lean toward sympathy for the victim.

The Guardian (UK) logoThe Guardian (UK)IndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 8017 days ago
Baby safely delivered 30 minutes after mother died in nine-storey fall

A pregnant woman named Emma Atkinson, 38, died after falling from a ninth-floor window in Leeds on October 22, 2024. An inquest revealed that she was seven months pregnant at the time of the incident. Paramedics pronounced her dead upon arrival, and her body was transported to the hospital, where an emergency cesarean section was performed. Her baby girl survived the fall with minor injuries, including a punctured lung and a broken leg, and is now 21 months old. The inquest concluded that Atkinson deliberately jumped from the window but could not determine whether she intended to end her life. The coroner noted factors like her recent mental health struggles and concerns over potential legal issues influenced the decision. Family members expressed conflicting views, with some believing she intended to take her own life, while others claimed she would never harm her children.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the inquest findings, highlighting both the coroner's conclusions and the differing perspectives from family members. It does not overtly favor any political ideology or agenda, focusing instead on the factual outcome of the case and the emotional impact on

Why factuality (85): The article provides detailed accounts from the inquest, including the mother's actions, the father's testimony, and the medical outcomes for both the mother and the baby. It includes specific dates, times, and medical procedures, aligning closely with other sources. The factual content is thorough

Why objectivity (80): The reporting is balanced, presenting both the coroner's findings and the father's account without apparent bias. The language remains professional and avoids emotionally charged descriptions, maintaining an objective tone.

Daily Mirror logoDaily MirrorIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7517 days ago
Pregnant mum said ‘I’m off’ and plunged 10 storeys to her death – but baby lives

Pregnant woman Emma Atkinson, 38, fell 10 storeys from a window in Leeds in 2024, resulting in her death. Her unborn child survived and was delivered via emergency C-section. The inquest revealed that Atkinson had removed the safety catches on the window and stated 'I'm off' before the fall. Her father reported seeing her feet go out of the window and finding her on the pavement. Coroner Naomi McLoughlin noted that while Atkinson intentionally jumped, her intent, suicide or accident, could not be determined. Police ruled out third-party involvement and suspicious circumstances. Atkinson had a history of mental health struggles and was concerned about potential legal issues related to missed court appearances.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the incident, focusing on the medical, legal, and emotional aspects without overtly favoring any political ideology. It reports on the inquest findings, police conclusions, and family statements without taking a clear ideological stance. The framing remains

Why factuality (85): The article provides detailed information from the inquest, including the timeline of events, witness statements, and the outcome for the baby. It aligns with the cross-source consensus regarding the fall, the mother's statement, and the survival of the infant. The facts are presented consistently w

Why objectivity (75): The language is somewhat dramatic, particularly in describing the fall as a '10-storey drop,' which may emphasize the tragedy. There is a slight emotional undertone, though the reporting remains largely factual.

The Independent logoThe IndependentIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7523 days ago
Southport killer Axel Rudakubana charged with assaulting prison staff

Axel Rudakubana, a 19-year-old convicted of killing three children and two adults during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in July 2024, has been charged with three assaults on prison staff and possession of an offensive weapon at HMP Belmarsh. The alleged incidents occurred between May and October 2025, with Rudakubana using boiling water to assault a prison officer. He is currently a patient at Broadmoor High Security Hospital, a facility that has housed notorious criminals like Peter Sutcliffe and Ronnie Kray. His transfer to the psychiatric unit followed a psychiatric assessment, though it does not affect his existing 52-year sentence. Rudakubana will appear in court via videolink on 11 September.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about legal proceedings and institutional responses without overt ideological slant. It reports on judicial decisions, prison policies, and medical transfers without favoring any particular political stance. While the subject involves criminal justice and law

Why factuality (85): The article presents factual details about Louise Harris's conviction and the impact on her victim, Elizabeth Shipton. It aligns with the primary source document regarding the charges and the consequences, though it focuses on a different case.

Why objectivity (75): The tone is somewhat biased toward the victim, emphasizing the severity of the abuse and the inadequacy of the sentence. This creates a one-sided perspective that may influence reader perception.

Daily Mail logoDaily MailIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 7523 days ago
Southport killer Axel Rudakubana is charged with multiple assaults on prison staff and having a weapon at HMP Belmarsh

Axel Rudakubana, a 19-year-old convicted murderer of three children and others, has been charged with multiple assaults on prison staff at HMP Belmarsh in 2025. The charges include using a kettle to pour boiling water on a guard, attempting grievous bodily harm, and possessing an offensive weapon. He was previously sentenced to 52 years in prison for the 2024 Southport killings. Rudakubana was transferred to Broadmoor psychiatric hospital due to mental health concerns, where he is treated as a patient rather than a prisoner. His case highlights ongoing issues of violence in prisons and the management of high-risk inmates.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about legal proceedings and institutional responses without overtly favoring any political ideology. It reports on the actions of a criminal defendant, the judicial system's handling of the case, and the broader implications for prison management and mental健康

Why factuality (80): The article covers a different case involving Axel Rudakubana, which is unrelated to the primary source document. While it includes factual details about his prison behavior and charges, it does not match the main event being discussed.

Why objectivity (75): The tone is somewhat sensationalized, highlighting the severity of the offenses and the potential danger posed by the prisoner. This may create a more alarming impression than a purely factual account.

BBC News (UK) logoBBC News (UK)State / PublicCenterFactual 80Objective 7523 days ago
Southport killer charged with prison attacks and possessing weapon

Axel Rudakubana, a 19-year-old convicted murderer who killed three children and injured others during a 2024 attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, has been charged with multiple offenses committed while incarcerated at HMP Belmarsh between May and October 2025. These charges include assault on emergency workers, attempted grievous bodily harm, and unauthorized possession of a weapon. Rudakubana received a 52-year prison sentence in January 2025 but was transferred to Broadmoor, a high-security psychiatric hospital, earlier this month. The move followed reports of incidents involving boiling water being thrown at a prison officer in May 2025. His transfer was criticized by a lawyer representing the victims’ families, though the Ministry of Justice stated it had no choice but to follow medical recommendations under the Mental Health Act.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about legal proceedings and criminal behavior without overtly favoring any political perspective. It includes quotes from legal representatives and mentions the involvement of the Ministry of Justice, but does not exhibit biased language or selective sourcing

Why factuality (80): The article discusses a different case involving Axel Rudakubana, which is unrelated to the primary source document. It provides factual details about his prison behavior and charges, but these do not align with the main event being discussed.

Why objectivity (75): The tone is somewhat biased, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the potential threat posed by the prisoner. This may lead to a more alarmist interpretation of the events.

Daily Mirror logoDaily MirrorIndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 6519 days ago
Woman pleads for help on husband's 999 call to confess he had 'killed his wife'

Anthony Buxton, 71, called emergency services on September 24, confessing to killing his wife, Michelle Buxton, 69, before taking his own life. During the 999 call, a female voice was heard groaning and asking for help, while Buxton stated, 'I've done it, no one can stop me.' Emergency responders arrived at their home in Camelford, Cornwall, and found both victims unresponsive with fatal injuries. Post-mortems revealed Michelle died from strangulation, while Anthony died from a stab wound. Family members described his declining mental state, including paranoia about being targeted by an organized crime group. A mental health assessment conducted shortly before his death indicated severe anxiety, though concerns about possible dementia were also raised.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on a tragic incident involving a domestic homicide and suicide, focusing on the events leading up to the deaths and the mental health factors involved. There is no indication of political bias in the framing, sourcing, or emphasis of the story. It presents factual details without

Why factuality (70): This article covers a different event entirely (a husband's suicide after killing his wife), so it cannot be judged against the cross-source consensus for the Treasury incident. However, the reporting includes quotes from police and family members, which adds some credibility to the narrative.

Why objectivity (65): The article uses emotionally charged language such as 'pleads for help' and 'deteriorated mental health,' which suggests a somewhat sympathetic tone toward the victim. There is a clear focus on the tragic outcome, which may influence reader perception.

Daily Mirror logoDaily MirrorIndependentProgressiveFactual 70Objective 6020 days ago
Mum took her own life after Tinder girlfriend's 'remorseless' campaign of abuse

Claire Alex, a 34-year-old woman, took her own life four days after reporting 11 months of abuse by her ex-girlfriend Kathryn White. The abuse included psychological and physical violence, such as being choked, isolated from friends and family, and subjected to threats of harm. White, 41, was found guilty of controlling and coercive behavior and received a three-year-and-six-month prison sentence. During the trial, defense argued White had mental health issues and a history of trauma, while prosecutors emphasized her manipulative tactics. The case highlights severe domestic abuse and the tragic consequences of untreated toxic relationships.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the abuse as a systemic issue requiring legal intervention and emphasizes the severity of domestic violence, aligning with progressive social policies. While the focus is on individual actions, the tone supports broader societal condemnation of abusive behaviors, typical of left-w

Why factuality (70): The article covers a different case involving Claire Alex and Kathryn White, which is unrelated to the primary source document. While it includes factual details about the abuse and subsequent suicide, it does not match the main event being discussed.

Why objectivity (60): The article uses emotionally charged language, particularly in describing the abuse and the outcome, which leans towards a sympathetic portrayal of the victim and critical view of the perpetrator.

Daily Mail logoDaily MailIndependentCenterFactual 50Objective 3014 days ago
Jude Bellingham's model girlfriend... and the police bodycam footage that reveals her desperate struggle to help her troubled mother

American model Ashlyn Castro, girlfriend of England footballer Jude Bellingham, shared distressing police bodycam footage showing her being assaulted by her mentally ill mother, Tina, while they were stranded in a hotel parking lot in Henderson, Nevada. The incident occurred shortly after Ashlyn had tried to secure a hotel room for her mother, who was homeless and reportedly off her medications. In the footage, Ashlyn describes being physically attacked by her mother, who later claimed Ashlyn had initiated the assault. Tina was fined $200 for domestic battery but is now wanted for contempt of court after failing to pay the fine. Despite her public praise for Jude Bellingham, their relationship appears to have intensified family tensions.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the personal conflict involving Ashlyn Castro and her mother, focusing on the emotional and legal aspects without overt ideological slant. While the subject involves a high-profile individual, the framing remains neutral, avoiding sensationalism or partisan

Why factuality (50): The article discusses a completely different incident involving Ashlyn Castro and her mother, unrelated to Lee Mercer's case. It does not align with the primary source document and contains no relevant information about the subject matter.

Why objectivity (30): The tone is sensationalized and emotionally charged, focusing on dramatic elements of the incident rather than presenting facts objectively. The language used is highly emotive and lacks neutrality.

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories