Detectives investigating the deaths of three people at a care home in Swanage have arrested a 60-year-old woman on suspicion of manslaughter, Dorset Police have said.Â
Three people were found dead at Gainsborough Care Home in Dorset and seven were taken to hospital earlier today.Â
The ‘major incident’ was declared after the authorities received a report at 7.16am of three dead.
The ambulance service was called two hours earlier, at 5.20am, when they also attended the scene.
Four patients were taken to Poole Hospital, and three were transported to Dorset County Hospital.
As many as 20 ambulances, fire engines and police have been rushed to the scene are at the Gainsborough Care Home in Ullwell Road, Swanage
Medics bring out equipment from the church, used to treat care home residents
Superintendent Dixey confirmed there is no risk to the wider public, and thanked the ‘tight-knit community’ for its support.
‘We will continue to provide updates in relation to our investigation,’ she added, urging the public to ‘refrain from speculation’.
More than 40 vulnerable residents and staff were evacuated by ambulances and taken to the All Saints Church nearby for shelter.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Third, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: ‘Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who tragically died and they are being supported by officers.
‘As part of our investigation, we have made one arrest to enable us to establish whether there have been actions or omissions which are grossly negligent and gather as much information as we can about what has happened. It is important to note that the arrest process also provides certain legal protection to individuals and I would ask for the media and public to avoid speculating any further now that legal proceedings are active.
‘We know that the residents of Swanage will be feeling the impact of this incident immensely and we would like to thank everyone for the care and respect that has been shown throughout the day.
‘Our local neighbourhood policing team will be on hand to provide support – we know this is a difficult time and we are doing all we can to minimise the impact on the community while we conduct enquiries in the area.’
