Dorset Police say they have arrested a 60 year old local woman on suspicion of manslaughter, following the death of three care home residents in Swanage, Dorset and she has been taken into custody.
South Western Ambulance Service received an emergency call at 5.20 am on Wednesday 23rd October 2024 after three residents were found deceased at the Gainsborough Care Home in Ulwell Road.
Ulwell Road outside the care home remains closed to traffic while the emergency services continue their investigations
Possible carbon monoxide poisoning
Dorset Police also attended shortly after 7 am, alongside colleagues from Swanage Fire Station and other Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service crews.
Seven people were taken to hospital as a precaution – four to Poole Hospital and three to Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester. The rest of the residents – about 40 people – were taken to the nearby All Saints Church.
Dorset Police say that the deaths are currently being treated as unexplained and they have made an arrest to, “Enable us to establish whether there have been actions or omissions which are grossly negligent.”
Detectives have confirmed that possible carbon monoxide poisoning is the primary line of enquiry. They say there is nothing to indicate any current risk to the wider public.
Dorset Police say that a multi agency presence will remain in the area
“We know this is a difficult time”
Detective chief inspector Neil Third, of the major crime investigation team, said:
“Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who tragically died and they are being supported by officers.
“As part of our investigation, we have made one arrest to enable us to establish whether there have been actions or omissions which are grossly negligent and gather as much information as we can about what has happened.
“It is important to note that the arrest process also provides certain legal protection to individuals and I would ask for the media and public to avoid speculating any further now that legal proceedings are active.
“We know that the residents of Swanage will be feeling the impact of this incident immensely and we would like to thank everyone for the care and respect that has been shown throughout the day.
“Our local neighbourhood policing team will be on hand to provide support – we know this is a difficult time and we are doing all we can to minimise the impact on the community while we conduct enquiries in the area.”
Contact Dorset Police
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240163072.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
