Father guilty of killing 14-month-old daughter who was 'shaken in violent temper'
A father has been convicted of killing his 14-month-old daughter who suffered a catalogue of injuries.
Daniel Ashurst, 33, was cleared by a jury at Manchester Crown Court of murdering Hollie Ashurst, but found guilty of her manslaughter.
Hollie sustained bruises and abrasions to the head and neck area, bleeding on the brain and in the eyes, a broken ankle and two possible bite marks to her hand and thigh.
Daniel Ashurst, 33, was said to have shaken her in a violent temper while alone with the youngster at the family home in Shevington, Wigan, on 28 February.
Hollie died in hospital the following day.
Ashurst had told medics his daughter had tumbled down two steps on the stairs at the family home in Fleming Court.
But in a defence statement seven months later, he claimed a series of unfortunate accidents had befallen his daughter.
He claimed that in a rush to get her to hospital, the toddler fell further down the staircase when he slipped and lost grip of her as his shorts pocket snagged something on the way down.
Ashurst then claimed Hollie flew out of her car seat as he braked heavily at a set of traffic lights.
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On 18 February, prosecutors said Ashurst’s explanation for the injuries was “nonsense” and was fabricated in a bid to fit the medical evidence.
Jurors were told they could only convict Ashurst of murder if they found he had assaulted her and intended to cause her death or serious injury.
It was unanimously agreed that he intended to cause her some harm short of serious injury or he realised some harm was likely to be caused.
The defendant is remanded in custody until sentencing on 26 February.
