Police Investigating Death of Care Home Resident With Injuries
Police are currently investigating the death of a 96-year-old woman, Mary Thomas, who had dementia and suffered injuries while residing at Llys Y Seren care home in Port Talbot. Mrs. Thomas passed away in the hospital 16 days after being brought in through an ambulance, with reported injuries including a broken collarbone and cracked cheekbone. Her family discovered her lying in a pool of blood next to her bed, with severe bruising evident across her body. Due to bed blockage at Morriston Hospital, Mrs. Thomas had to endure a 32-hour wait in the ambulance before being admitted. She later succumbed to pneumonia in the hospital on March 1.
A police spokesman stated: “South Wales Police is investigating the circumstances which led to the sad death of Mrs. Thomas. Specially trained officers from the vulnerable adult investigation unit are working with the family, care home, and the local authority in this ongoing investigation.”
Mrs. Thomas had resided in the care home for eight years prior to her passing. In 2022, her family had raised concerns about her well-being and dignity within the home. While these complaints were not upheld by Pobl, the care home owner, improvements were made at the facility, including implementing professional boundary training.
Mrs. Thomas, who suffered from osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, had experienced multiple falls at the home despite using a walking frame and a wheelchair. Her daughter, Janet Pearce, expressed dissatisfaction with the care her mother received leading up to her death. Mrs. Pearce recounted an incident where her mother was found on the floor covered in bruises and blood, waiting an extended period in the ambulance due to hospital bed unavailability. Mrs. Thomas eventually was diagnosed with a cracked cheekbone and broken collarbone.
Concerning the investigation, a Pobl group representative mentioned: “The thoughts of everybody at Pobl group, and in particular our colleagues at Llys y Seren, are with the family of Mrs. Thomas. Given that this is a live police investigation, it would be inappropriate for us to make any public comment at this time.”
Acknowledging the distress caused by the prolonged wait for a hospital bed, a Swansea Bay health board spokesperson extended their condolences to Mrs. Thomas’ family and offered assistance for any queries or concerns regarding her treatment. Mrs. Thomas is remembered as a remarkable individual, a former legal clerk, and a dedicated grandmother with a passion for learning and culture. Her family seeks answers and justice for the circumstances surrounding her tragic death.