Pastor Charged After Man Drowns During Baptism Ceremony

A church baptism turned deadly in a case that’s now leading to criminal charges more than two years later.

Authorities have announced that a pastor in Birmingham, England, is facing a charge of gross negligence manslaughter following the drowning of a man during a baptism ceremony in October 2023.

Cheryl Bartley, 48, is accused in connection with the death of 61-year-old Robert Smith, who drowned while being baptized during a service held at a private home.

According to officials, Smith had traveled from London to take part in the ceremony and had been a member of the ministry for several years. The baptism took place in a small pool set up in the backyard of the property.

At the time of the incident, the church had been livestreaming the ceremony on social media. The stream was abruptly cut off and later removed.

Emergency crews were called to the scene that afternoon, but despite efforts to save him, Smith was pronounced dead.

It was later shared that he had been living with Parkinson’s disease, though it’s unclear what role, if any, that may have played in the tragedy.

Now, after an extended investigation, prosecutors say there is enough evidence to move forward with charges.

Officials emphasized that the decision was made after closely reviewing the case and working alongside police, and they believe pursuing charges is in the public interest.

Bartley is expected to appear in court on May 14. As with any criminal case, she is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

The incident has raised serious questions about safety during religious ceremonies—especially those involving water—while also leaving a family and community grappling with a devastating loss.