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 incident, which occurred early Wednesday morning, led to the evacuation of the care home and the transportation of seven individuals to the hospital as a precaution. Emergency services, including the South Western Ambulance Service, responded to the scene at 5:20 am, deploying a hazard response team, 10 ambulances, and additional resources. Gainsborough Care Home, which is run by Agincare and houses 48 elderly residents, some of whom have dementia, has since been cordoned off while investigations are ongoing.
Dorset Police have assured the public that there is no wider risk beyond the affected care home. “We understand this incident will have a significant impact on the Swanage community, and our thoughts are very much with the families of those who have sadly died at this extremely difficult time,” a police spokesperson said. A significant multi-agency presence remains at the location as further inquiries are conducted.
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.
