LOUISE MCKAY'S BRUTAL ATTACK ON BABY AND TEENAGER IN COLCHESTER SHOCKS COMMUNITY

In a disturbing incident that unfolded on a bus in Colchester, Louise McKay, aged 39, from Dahlia Walk, found herself at the center of a serious assault that has left the local community shaken. The incident occurred on July 1 in Hawthorn Avenue, Greenstead, when McKay's volatile temper erupted during a routine bus journey involving a young family.

According to court proceedings, McKay admitted to physically assaulting a nine-month-old baby boy and also assaulting a 17-year-old girl during the same altercation. The young family, which included the baby’s mother—who is also the teenager’s stepmother—had boarded the bus at the Hythe Tesco store shortly before the incident escalated. Witnesses reported that trouble began shortly after the family got on the bus, with tensions rising over a comment made by the baby’s father.

The baby's father reportedly told the infant to “shut up” after the child repeatedly said “dad, dad, dad.” This seemingly minor remark appeared to trigger McKay’s outburst. Allegedly, McKay questioned whether the mother and her children had issues with her husband being disabled, which further inflamed the situation. The situation quickly spiraled out of control as McKay rose from her seat and began to physically assault the teenager, hitting her and shouting at her in a manner that alarmed other passengers.

As the confrontation intensified, the mother and her children attempted to disembark from the bus to escape the chaos. However, McKay allegedly continued her assault by hitting the baby around the back and slapping him in the face. The mother claimed that McKay then followed them off the bus, during which she reportedly rammed the buggy into a nearby bin in a display of aggression. Several other passengers witnessed the altercation, which had begun just after the family boarded the bus, and the incident drew immediate police attention.

Following the disturbance, the mother promptly dialed 999, and police officers arrived at the scene within minutes to address the situation. McKay was taken into custody and later appeared before Colchester magistrates to face charges.

During her court appearance, Evelyn Hicks, representing McKay, highlighted her client’s mental health issues and learning difficulties. Hicks explained that McKay had not responded when questioned by police but revealed that she had since sought medical advice and referred herself to Mind, a mental health charity, for support.

District Judge John Woollard addressed McKay directly, emphasizing the seriousness of her actions. He stated, “This is a serious offence and has serious consequences for you in the future because you assaulted children. I am concerned about your inability to control your temper. The offence is serious enough to impose a community penalty.”

As part of her sentence, McKay was ordered to complete a six-month supervision program. She was also instructed to pay each of the children involved £50 in compensation. Additionally, she was required to pay a £60 surcharge and £50 in court costs. The case has left a lasting impression on the community, raising concerns about public safety and the importance of mental health support for individuals in crisis.