Janice Nix, 66, accused in a Child Scalding Death case from 1978—New evidence reopens shocking tragedy

A once-forgotten Child Scalding Death case has resurfaced after over four decades, leading to the arrest of ex-probation worker and author Janice Nix, 66, accused of killing five-year-old Andrea Bernard in a boiling bath in 1978.

Andrea suffered severe burns covering half her body and died weeks later in hospital. Nix, known in the past as ‘Mamma J,’ is also accused of cruelty towards Andrea’s older brother, Desmond Bernard, over a three-year period.

The case, which had long remained unsolved, was reopened in September 2022 following a cold case investigation by the Metropolitan Police. Detectives uncovered new evidence linking Nix to the crime, leading to formal charges this week.

A Tragic Death in Thornton Heath

On 6 June 1978, emergency services were called to a house in Thornton Heath, southwest London, where Andrea had suffered catastrophic burns. She was rushed to a specialist burns unit but succumbed to her injuries on 13 July.

The investigation at the time failed to result in charges, and the case faded into obscurity—until now. Police have not revealed what new information led to Nix’s arrest, but the reopening of the case has sent shockwaves through the community.

In addition to the manslaughter charge, Nix is accused of subjecting Desmond Bernard, then eight years old, to sustained cruelty between 1975 and 1978. The exact nature of the alleged abuse remains unclear, but prosecutors suggested a pattern of mistreatment in court.

A Chilling Courtroom Appearance

Nix, now a prize-winning engagement worker and published author, sat in the dock wearing a navy blue hoodie, pulling the hood over her face as she left the courtroom. She confirmed her name, age, and address but did not enter a plea.

The judge granted her bail under strict conditions, including surrendering her passports and being barred from international travel. She will next appear at Isleworth Crown Court on 19 March, where the full details of the case will be laid out.

A Long-Awaited Reckoning

Speaking after the hearing, a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said the case highlighted the importance of revisiting cold cases. “Andrea’s death was a tragic and horrific event. This investigation has been years in the making, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served,” they said.

Andrea Bernard’s surviving relatives have not publicly commented on the charges. However, neighbours in Thornton Heath recalled the horror of the child’s death. “I remember when it happened. The whole street was talking about it, but it just disappeared from the news,” one resident said.

With the upcoming trial set to expose the full extent of the alleged abuse, this case serves as a grim reminder of the past—and a long-overdue fight for justice.