Ethan's mum gave toddler 'crack on head' days before death, says murder accused

A GRANDFATHER accused of murdering his grandson claimed the toddler's mother had given him a “crack” on the head days before he died, a court heard.

- By DAVID POWELL Daily Post Reporter

Michael Ives, 47, insisted Shannon Ives caused a mark on Ethan Ives-Griffiths' eyelid.

Michael Ives also yesterday told how his daughter would “lose her temper” with two-year-old Ethan.

The toddler collapsed on August 14, 2021, at his grandparents' home in Garden City and died at Alder Hey children’s hospital on Merseyside two days later.

Michael and Kerry Ives, 46, both of Kingsley Road, Garden City, deny murder, an alternative count of causing, or allowing the death of a child and cruelty to a person under 16.

Shannon Ives, 28, of Nant Garmon, Mold, denies causing or allowing the death of a child and cruelty to a person under 16.

Yesterday, on day 12 of their trial, the jury at Mold Crown Court heard evidence from police interviews.

Michael Ives told detectives he had been feeding Ethan macaroni cheese on August 14, the day he was later taken to hospital with serious injuries.

The court heard soon afterwards Shannon tried to feed Ethan and when Michael saw Ethan again, he says he noticed Ethan had a mark on the corner of his left eyelid.

Michael told police: “I said it wasn't there five minutes ago,” during a conversation with Shannon.

Shannon said: “It just appeared”, claimed Michael.

Michael said he thought Shannon was lying and that she had given Ethan a "crack".