A 60-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after three people were found dead at Gainsborough Care Home in Swanage, Dorset. The arrest was made on Wednesday, following initial reports from Dorset Police that described the deaths as “unexplained.” Authorities have stated that carbon monoxide poisoning is currently the “primary line of inquiry.
The evacuated residents, including some in wheelchairs, were relocated to a nearby church hall. Local residents have shown their support by bringing blankets and other supplies, demonstrating “great community support,” according to Councillor Gary Suttle, who expressed condolences to those affected by the tragic event.
Southern Gas Network has confirmed that their engineers were called to the scene and are currently awaiting access to the building to carry out safety checks. A spokesperson stated, “Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by this tragic incident.”
The care home has increased staffing resources to manage the situation, emphasizing that the well-being of their residents remains the “overriding priority.”
As investigations continue, police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The community of Swanage is in shock as authorities work to determine the exact cause of the fatalities.