A heartbroken mother recounts the tragic day her 3 year old son died after being run over by a farm vehicle in England.
A jury found the dad not guilty of gross negligence manslaughter in court on Tuesday. The dad admitted a health and safety offense and will be sentenced later.
Albie’s mom, Leah Bridge, spoke about the tragedy, saying it feels like yesterday and time has stopped for her. She wonders if Albie was scared because she wasn’t there with him.
Leah remembers finding out about Albie’s death while she had cornflakes on the table, the same cornflakes Albie ate that morning. She dropped him off with his dad at 9 am, as Albie’s dad cared for him on weekends.
Speakman called Leah, crying and saying, “It’s Albie, it’s Albie.” Leah knew something was wrong and he told her to go to the hospital, then saying, “He’s dead… he’s dead.” Leah drove to the hospital, thinking it was a joke.
Speakman had been with Albie that morning, and they went to the farm before noon. Speakman used a telehandler to move woodchips while Albie played with dogs nearby. Speakman reversed the machine and did not see Albie behind it. Albie was taken to a hospital but died soon after.
Speakman said it was a “tragic accident” and that he “messed up.” Leah felt Albie was let down. She has a new son now, Ebon, and gave him Albie’s name as a middle name.
Leah returned to work at Albie’s nursery but can’t go into Albie’s room. Staff made a bench in Albie’s memory. Leah vacuum-packed Albie’s clothes and toys and carries his jumper with her.
Leah said she has to “just keep existing” and works six days a week now. She feels guilty about time with Ebon, who goes to the cemetery with her. She will tell him about Albie later.
Leah feels anxious about Ebon’s safety, saying he keeps her going. She feels broken and her world is gone. Even though it has been over two years since Albie’s death, it does not get easier for her.