Mum admits killing her daughter, 2, found dead in a pond near her home

A mum has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of her two-year-old daughter who died after she was found in a pond.

Alice Mackey, 42, admitted killing Annabel Mackey in Kingsley, Hampshire, in September 2023 at Winchester Crown Court.

The two-year-old went missing from her home in Hampshire on September 10 and was found unresponsive a short time later at Kingsley Pond.

She was taken to hospital in a serious condition but died the following afternoon.

Mackey entered a not guilty plea to a charge of murder, which the court heard was acceptable to the prosecution, as reports by two psychiatrists showed she was in a state of ‘diminished responsibility’ at the time of the incident.

Judge Christopher Parker KC adjourned the case for sentencing on October 6.

Mackey has been remanded into custody until then.

In a statement released through police after Annabel’s death, her father said: ‘Annabel was a beautiful, positive and very happy little girl.

‘She had an incredibly pure and caring nature that we miss so much. She loved story time, dogs and her dolly.

‘She enjoyed singing songs and nursery rhymes and had a very sweet tooth.

‘Annabel loved to laugh, she brought so much happiness into our lives. She was dearly loved by her family and friends.

‘Thank you to everyone who was a positive influence in her life. Please continue Annabel’s legacy by remembering her and caring for others as much as she did.

‘The world needs more people like Annabel to spread positivity and kindness.

‘Annabel, I love you so much, you are a shining star and you will be loved forever.’

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