Man convicted of murdering six-month-old baby in Houghton Regis

A man has been found guilty of the murder of a six-month-old baby in Houghton Regis and lying about the circumstances to cover his actions.

Kieran Humphreys, 33, of Bromley Gardens, was convicted yesterday (Monday) at Luton Crown Court of the murder of Archie Woodbridge, following a three-week trial.

He will face sentencing at a later date.

On 9th February 2024, Archie was left in Humphreys' care at a home in Dolphin Drive, Houghton Regis, when the six-month-old was violently shaken.

Archie became unwell, but instead of calling for emergency help, Humphreys took him to a relative’s property in Bromley Gardens. An ambulance was eventually called approximately 90 minutes after the injuries occurred.

Officers from Bedfordshire Police were alerted by the ambulance service to a concern for the welfare of a baby just before 5.30pm. Archie was rushed to the hospital but passed away shortly after.

Evidence showed that the baby had suffered severe shaking, resulting in a fatal brain injury and fractured ribs.

Humphreys initially lied to police, claiming Archie was with his mother at the time and that an ambulance was called immediately.

Following the verdict, Archie’s mother paid tribute to her son, describing the immense loss she feels.

"Archie came into this world two months early. He fought hard for his life in his first few weeks. Kieran claimed to love Archie, but his actions were the opposite. Kieran ripped Archie from this world, in an evilness that is unmatched," she said.

She added: “All my life, all I ever wanted - more than anything - was to become a mum. Archie gave me this wish - he made me a mum. Kieran has taken away the most precious thing in my world. I once told Kieran that I couldn’t imagine losing a child. Through his actions, and his actions alone, he has ensured that I now know the agony of this.”

She went on to say: “Archie was a real boy who had birthdays to come, milestones to reach and people to cheer him on and watch him as he grew. He was, is, and always will be loved and cherished. No one can take that away.”

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Gardner from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit commented on the case.

“This was a deeply distressing case in which a defenceless baby lost his life at the hands of someone who should have been caring for him,” he said.

“Kieran Humphreys’ actions reveal a distinctly self-serving approach, as his primary concern was to save himself rather than prioritising Archie’s welfare by trying to cover his tracks.

“My thoughts are with Archie’s family at this difficult time – nothing can bring him back, but I hope today’s verdict brings some measure of justice and peace.

“We will always pursue the truth in cases like this, no matter how complex or painful, to ensure those responsible are held fully accountable.”

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