Mother Pleads Guilty After 2-Year-Old Daughter Was Found Dead

Annabel Mackey, a two-year-old described by her family as joyful, kind, and loving, was reported missing from her village home in Oakhanger, Hampshire, on September 10, 2023. She was later discovered unresponsive in Kingsley Pond, only about 350 yards from the family residence. She was rushed to the hospital but tragically died the following afternoon.

Tragedy Recast as Mental Health Crisis for the Mother

On July 28, 2025, Annabel’s mother, Alice Mackey, now 42, appeared at Winchester Crown Court and pleaded guilty—not to murder—but to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility. Prosecutors accepted this plea after psychiatric evaluations confirmed she was suffering from significantly impaired mental capacity at the time. As a result, the charge of murder was withdrawn.

From Investigation to Admission

Originally charged with murder in March 2025, the case took a significant turn when two independent psychiatric reports concluded that Alice was experiencing a profound mental health episode during the incident. This led to the manslaughter plea and a remand in custody ahead of sentencing, which is scheduled for October 6, 2025.

A Father’s Tribute to a Sparkling Child

Annabel’s father released a heartfelt tribute reflecting the family’s grief. He described her as “a beautiful, positive and very happy little girl” who loved singing, dolls, and dogs—and brought immense joy to everyone around her. In his statement, he urged people to “continue her legacy by remembering her and caring for others as much as she did.”

Why Reduced Responsibility from the Mother Matters

Legal experts say that a verdict based on diminished responsibility doesn’t excuse the death—it acknowledges that the defendant’s mental condition significantly altered her perception and judgment. This plea steers the case towards mental health treatment alongside legal accountability. It does not preclude a prison sentence but may allow for therapeutic sentencing or medical supervision.

What Happens Next

Alice remains in custody pending her next court appearance on October 6. At that hearing, a High Court judge may review the factual basis for her plea and determine sentencing. Bail remains unlikely given the seriousness of the incident and questions about public safety and mental health support.

A Community in Shock and Concern

For the small Hampshire village and the broader local community, the case has left residents horrified and searching for answers. Neighbors remembered the family as quiet and friendly, often seen walking together. The fact that a familiar home could become the site of such a tragedy has prompted calls for broader awareness of mental health warning signs—even in seemingly ordinary households.

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