Dorset Police say that a 60 year old local woman who was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, following the death of three residents of a Swanage care home, has been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
Emergency services were called to Gainsborough Care Home in Ulwell Road at 5.20 am on Wednesday 23rd October 2024.
All the care home residents who were temporarily looked after at All Saints church were all moved to new care homes by the end of the day
Unexplained deaths
Dorset Police now say that the people who died were two men aged 74 and 91 and an 86 year old woman.
The deaths of the three residents are being treated as unexplained. Their families are being updated with any developments as the investigation progresses.
Seven people were taken to hospital as a precaution and are not in a serious condition. Other residents have been moved to new care homes.
Detectives are still exploring possible carbon monoxide poisoning as the primary line of enquiry and there is no wider risk to the community.
The police say the arrest was made to enable them to establish whether there were any actions or omissions that may be grossly negligent, and enquiries will continue into this.
Journalists including those from the BBC, reported on the news for their breakfast shows
“Continuing to gather as much information as possible”
Detective chief inspector Neil Third, of the major crime investigation team, said:
“The thoughts of the investigation team and wider force remain with the loved ones of those who tragically died.
“We are continuing to gather as much information as possible to give us a full picture of events during the morning of Wednesday 23 October 2024. This involves liaising with experts from partner agencies to understand the circumstances and this work will take some time to be carried out.
“Members of the public can expect to see a large multi-agency presence continue in the area over the coming days to enable us to conduct detailed enquiries. Our local officers will remain in the area to provide support.
“This tragic incident will have a significant impact on the community in Swanage. The care, compassion and respect that has been shown so far is commendable and we hope this continues over the coming days as our investigation progresses.”
All Saints Church was used as an evacuation centre for the care home residents
Church offering support to those affected
Reverend Jo Levasier, team vicar at nearby All Saints Church, is offering support to those affected by the sad events. She said:
“Following the tragedy at Gainsborough Care Home, All Saints Church would like to offer support to the families of the residents affected and the care home staff. Anyone who would like to talk to us are welcome to email me or contact me via the numbers on our website.”
Jo can be contacted via her email Jo@swanageteam.com or the church website
Ulwell Road which was closed by police during the incident, has now been reopened.
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.
