Toddler allegedly murdered by mother was found after having been submerged in water inquest hears
A toddler who was allegedly murdered his mother was found by his grandmother after having been submerged in bath water at his home, an inquest heard today.
Natalie Steele, 31, is accused of killing two-year-old Reid Steele, who was described as a ‘super happy’ and ‘intelligent’ little boy by his family.
Reid, who was just two months away from his third birthday when he died, was found by his grandmother, after having been submerged in bath water, at 7.30pm on August 11 at his family home in Broadlands, Bridgend, South Wales.
Reid was taken to University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, in a critical condition from the large £500,000 house on the Parkwood Heights estate.
But Reid was pronounced death the next day after doctors lost a battle to save his life, the Pontypridd inquest heard on Friday.
Reid Steele (pictured) was found by his grandmother, after having been submerged in bath water, at 7.30pm on August 11 at his family home in Broadlands, Bridgend, South Wales
The coroner’s officer said: ‘Reid was found by his grandmother unresponsive on the bathroom floor at his home address after being found submerged in the bath water.
‘Emergency services were alerted immediately, and he was transported to the University Hospital of Wales.’
The inquest has been adjourned to await the outcome of criminal proceedings.
Carpet company worker Natalie Steele has been remanded in custody to appear in Cardiff Crown Court on November 26.
In a tribute, Reid’s devastated relatives described him as a treasured and ‘perfect’ nephew, grandson, great-grandson and cousin.
His family said: ‘He was a super, super-happy, gorgeous, wonderful and intelligent little boy who lit up everyone’s lives.
‘He loved the garden and the beach, picking raspberries and going for walks collecting shells.
He was a very chatty little boy and would happily speak to anyone.’
Natalie Steele (pictured), 31, is accused of killing two-year-old Reid Steele, who was described as a ‘super happy’ and ‘intelligent’ little boy by his family
The family said the intelligent toddler was able to count to ten in three different languages and would often ask people if they were OK because he ‘cared for everything and everyone’.
His family said his favourite things included Bob the Builder, Winnie the Pooh, the beach, diggers, and nature.
They continued: ‘We miss him with every fibre of our beings. Reid never experienced evil or pain in his little life, he was so adored by all of us. We miss him every single day.
‘He was the most beautiful and precious angel to grace the earth.If anyone of you were able to have met him in his short life, you will understand exactly what we mean.’
His family continued: ‘Sadly, he lost his fight on August 12. We cannot put into words how utterly amazing the staff were at the ward.
‘They allowed Reid’s grandparents to stay overnight to be close to him and supplied a care package for them including a T-shirt, toothbrush etc.
‘They allowed all six of us to visit him in pairs whilst he fought for his life. We will never be able to express our appreciation of how amazing they were.
‘They did everything they possibly could to save his life and went above and beyond to ensure we were all supported the whole time. They allowed us in a separate room to grieve and had a room for us to eat and drink if we so needed.’
The family are trying to raise money for the Noah’s Ark children’s unit at the Cardiff hospital where he spent his last night.
Reid was taken to University Hospital of Wales in a critical condition from the £500,000 house (above) on the Parkwood Heights estate but was pronounced dead the next day
In a tribute, Reid’s devastated relatives described him as a treasured and ‘perfect’ nephew, grandson, great-grandson and cousin. Pictured: Tributes left near Reid’s home
They said: ‘We want to raise as much money as we can in Reid’s memory for Noah’s Ark, he would’ve loved this.
‘His favourite story was also Noah’s Ark so it seems very fitting to fundraise for this charity.
‘Any donations will make a huge difference to all of the other families and children needing care. Thank you so much.’
Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Matt Davies, said: ‘This is a harrowing case for all concerned and my thoughts go out to Reid’s family who continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
‘Legal proceedings are now live, and whilst I appreciate there are concerns in the community, I would urge people to refrain from speculating on social media.
‘Our investigation continues, and anybody who thinks they may have relevant information is urged to make contact.
‘The family respectfully ask to be left to grieve at this difficult time.’
Source: dailymail
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