Blackpool, United Kingdom – The Preston Davey case has taken an even darker turn after convicted killer Jamie Varley reportedly offered investigators a previously hidden detail about the death of his adopted son in prison.

Late last night, according to reports, Varley, 37, told staff at HMP Wakefield he wanted to provide a new account of the events surrounding 13-month-old Preston’s death on July 27, 2023. His motivation, sources say, was to secure a transfer to a different facility and potentially lighten his sentence.

The disclosure forced detectives to reopen crucial aspects of the investigation.

What they uncovered next has plunged the case into a chilling new phase.

The Case in Brief

Preston Davey was subjected to months of horrific abuse at the hands of Varley and his partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, before dying at Blackpool Victoria Hospital. A post-mortem revealed around 40 traumatic injuries, including internal damage consistent with sexual assault.

Varley had initially claimed Preston accidentally drowned in the bath while he was briefly away. But medical evidence and eyewitness accounts painted a very different picture.

In June 2026, Varley was sentenced to a whole-life order for murder after an eight-week trial at Preston Crown Court. He will never be eligible for parole. McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, received 25 years for allowing the death and participating in the abuse.

Varley’s Sudden New Statement

According to unnamed prison sources and media reports, Varley approached officers at HMP Wakefield and asked to speak about an undisclosed element of the case. He expressed hope that sharing the information could help his transfer and reduce his term.

Detectives immediately revisited key evidence from the trial, including Varley’s original account and forensic details from the night of Preston’s death.

What they found has reportedly left investigators stunned and the case facing new complications.

Why the Disclosure Matters

Varley’s original story was central to the prosecution. He told police and hospital staff that he had left Preston in the bath for only a few minutes before returning to find the child unconscious. He claimed no water was swallowed and described the incident as accidental.

The new disclosure reportedly contradicts or expands on that version in a way that could alter the timeline, evidence handling, or legal strategy.

While Varley’s motive appears tied to his desire to escape the dangers of “Monster Mansion” – a category-A unit housing some of Britain’s most dangerous inmates – the impact on the investigation remains significant.

Public Reaction and Broader Implications

The revelation has shocked the public, who followed the original trial with horror. Many feel the new turn adds insult to injury for Preston’s family and raises questions about the reliability of prisoner statements.

His biological mother, Sarah Davey, now 42, was convicted of murder in 1998 and spent much of her life in and out of prison. Preston was adopted when he was just nine months old.

No further official comment has been issued by Lancashire Police or the Crown Prosecution Service as of press time.

What Happens Next?

Investigators have indicated the case is being treated with utmost seriousness. Any new evidence could lead to additional charges, a retrial, or changes in sentencing for the remaining defendants.

In the meantime, Varley remains in HMP Wakefield, where he has reportedly been trying to protect himself by adopting a new identity and requesting a transfer.

The Preston Davey case, already one of the most disturbing in recent British legal history, now faces an unexpected and disturbing new chapter.

As authorities continue their work, one question looms large: how much more darkness remains to be revealed?