Very interesting and perhaps another understandable reason that the father was repulsed and withdrew. Yet he , more than any other person on earth, had the perspective and opportunity to avert this tragedy by showing up, seeing what was happening and doing something. Paternal responsibilities are not always pleasant or easy to exercise.
What could he do? If he did not have custody not a damn thing. You know these court systems. All for the BT’s. In this situation he did the best thing he got out ALIVE.