A senior coroner has urged that public officials be scrutinized following the abuse and murder of adopted 13-month-old Preston Davey. Alan Wilson, senior coroner for Blackpool and Fylde, stated it is 'highly likely' an inquest will be held into Preston's death, though a final decision has not yet been made.

Preston was adopted by Jamie Varley, 37, and John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, after being taken from his mother, Sarah Davey, via an emergency care order issued by Oldham Council. He had been placed in foster care at five days old. Over a four-month period, Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley subjected the infant to physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, culminating in his death on July 27, 2023.

Following an eight-week trial at Preston Crown Court, Varley received a whole-life sentence for the abuse and fatal sexual assault. McGowan-Fazakerley was sentenced to 25 years for his role and complicity. The court heard that the couple treated Preston as their 'plaything,' inflicting 'unremitting abuse.'

Preston had been brought to Blackpool Victoria Hospital on three occasions prior to his death, where he was seen by various professionals, including medical staff, social workers, and welfare officers. No further action was taken at the time.

Mr. Wilson noted that an inquest was initially opened but suspended during the police investigation and subsequent trials. He is considering whether to resume the inquest, stating that "acts and omissions of public authorities that need to be scrutinised in a public hearing in which Preston's family can participate." He anticipates the inquiry could take place in the autumn of 2027, describing it as potentially a "wide-ranging inquiry."

A review into Preston's death by Oldham Safeguarding Children's Partnership has resumed and is expected to conclude by January 2027. Until then, an inquest cannot proceed.

Legal representation for various parties, including Preston's biological mother and grandmother, his father, the NHS trust running Blackpool Victoria Hospital, and Adoption Now, were discussed at the hearing. Oldham Council managed the adoption, with Bolton Council also having a role. Decisions are pending regarding legal representation for South Shore Academy, where Varley was employed, and Lancashire Police, who had previously responded to concerns about Preston's welfare.

Preston's birth mother, Sarah Davey, has a history of incarceration, having received a mandatory life sentence in July 1999 for her part in the murder of a pensioner when she was 15. Preston was born while she was in custody, and a place in a mother and baby unit was refused, leading to the court order for his removal.

Mr. Wilson adjourned for a further hearing in October, offering condolences to Preston's father as the anniversary of his death approaches.