Cyprus hotel fall: Essex dad fined after son’s death

The toddler plunged almost 40ft from the hotel window

Joshua Foster, 37, from Essex, appeared at Paphos District Court on Friday. He admitted an offence relating to causing death through a reckless, rash or dangerous act, BBC News reported.

The incident took place on 12 July, just hours after the family arrived for their stay at the five-star King Evelthon Beach Hotel and Resort in Chlorakas. 

Foster had picked up his two-year-old son to give him a view of a waterpark outside the building when the child fell from the fourth floor.

The toddler plunged almost 40ft. Police were alerted, and he was rushed to Paphos General Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead.

Earlier that day, the family had spent time at the hotel swimming pool after arriving in Cyprus during the early hours. 

By the evening, Foster was walking towards a lift with his son and father-in-law when the child noticed the waterpark through a window.

Foster lifted the toddler onto the windowsill so he could see the attraction below. He believed the window was closed, but told police he lost control of his son before he could prevent the fall.

Father speaks out after court hearing

His lawyer, Alexandros Alexandrou, told the court that Foster had been enjoying time with his son shortly before the tragedy and had been in a good mood. He said the incident had changed his client's life forever.

Alexandrou also highlighted that Foster had no previous convictions, adding that his remorse was clear. 

Although alcohol was found in Foster's system, the lawyer said there was no testimony to suggest he had been drunk, and the issue did not play a significant role in the proceedings.

After the hearing, Foster spoke briefly outside the court, thanking people for their support. He said he was looking forward to returning home to his wife and daughter.