Mum killed three-month-old baby by exposing her to ‘sustained’ heat from hairdryer

A mum who killed her three-month-old daughter with a hairdryer’s hot air has been jailed for six years.

Courtney Gartshore used the appliance to subject Dahlia-Rose Gartshore to ‘significant and sustained heat’ on the head and body, fatally injuring her.

The ‘harrowing’ incident took place at an address on King Street in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, on September 30, 2023.

Gartshore, 28, was convicted of the culpable homicide of her daughter following a trial at the High Court in Aberdeen in July.

She was jailed for six years when she was sentenced at the High Court in Edinburgh on Friday.

Emergency services were called to the property but Dahlia-Rose was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gartshore had earlier been drinking while she had been in sole charge of the infant.

An investigation into the child’s death was launched and Gartshore, from Aberdeen, was arrested and charged in November 2023.

Following Gartshore’s conviction detective inspector James Callander described the case as ‘incredibly disturbing’.

‘Children are defenceless and should be protected,’ the officer said.

‘The death of any child is particularly harrowing, but a child’s death at the hands of a parent is incredibly disturbing.

‘Everyone involved in this investigation was deeply affected by the circumstances of Dahlia-Rose’s death, but our job is to uncover the truth and ensure that the person responsible is brought to justice.

‘I would like to express sincere thanks to everyone who supported what was an incredibly difficult and sensitive inquiry.

‘The unwavering commitment and professionalism shown by our officers and partner agencies who worked tirelessly to ensure this complex enquiry was conducted thoroughly and with the utmost care, dignity, and respect.

‘I also want to acknowledge the local community, for their patience, understanding and support throughout this investigation, particularly those who came forward with information, whose cooperation has been invaluable in helping us establish the truth and secure this conviction.’

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