A 60-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the deaths of three elderly individuals from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at a care home in Swanage has been released by the police without charge. The deaths of two men aged 74 and 91, and an 86-year-old woman at the Gainsborough Care Home are still under investigation and being treated as “unexplained” as authorities continue their inquiries.
Dorset Police were alerted to the incident at 7.16am on October 23 following reports of the unexplained deaths of the three residents. Carbon monoxide poisoning is being looked into as a potential cause of the fatalities. A spokesperson for the police stated, “An investigation is being conducted by detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Team and as part of initial inquiries into the deaths, a 60-year-old local woman was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.”
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Third, leading the investigation, emphasized that the deceased and their families are the top priority in the ongoing probe. He mentioned, “Over recent weeks we have been continuing to gather as much information as we can, working with HM Coroner, to establish a cause of death.” He explained the rationale behind the woman’s arrest, stating, “The arrest was also made to establish whether there were any actions or omissions by that individual that were believed to be grossly negligent, and we have now reached a position where we do not believe that to be the case.”
The investigation continues with forensic analysis and detailed submissions expected to assist in determining the causes of the deaths, a process that could take several months. Detective Chief Inspector Neil Third assured that the families of the deceased individuals are being kept informed of any updates in the investigation as authorities work diligently to uncover the truth behind the tragic incident and provide closure to the bereaved families.
The authorities were called to Gainsborough Care Home following the report of the unexplained deaths of the three elderly residents, sparking concerns over the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals in care facilities. The community and families of the victims are seeking answers and justice as the investigation delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding the suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at the care home.
As the investigation progresses, the need for transparency and accountability in care home facilities is highlighted, with a spotlight on ensuring the safety and welfare of residents. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols and regulations in care homes to prevent such heartbreaking events in the future. The authorities are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that justice is served in this case of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning that claimed the lives of three elderly individuals at the care home.
The release of the woman previously arrested on suspicion of manslaughter signifies a critical development in the investigation, with the focus now shifting towards gathering and analysing forensic evidence to determine the circumstances that led to the tragic deaths at the care home. The community awaits further updates as the authorities work tirelessly to provide answers and closure to the affected families in the wake of this devastating incident.
(cardiff)