Woman, 60, arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after 3 dead & 7 hospitalised in care home ‘carbon monoxide poisoning’

A WOMAN has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after the deaths of three people at a care home.

Seven people from Gainsborough Care Home are also in hospital tonight as cops said carbon monoxide poisoning is the "primary line of enquiry".

Dorset Police said the deaths are currently being treated as unexplained.

A 60-year-old local woman has now been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.

She remains in police custody at this time, cops added.

Police said they received a report at 7.16am regarding three residents who were found dead at the care home in Ulwell Road, Swanage.

Have you been affected by this incident? Email jonathan.rose@mcb777.site

Seven people were taken to hospital as a precaution.

The other residents of the address were evacuated to a location where they can receive appropriate care.

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 inquiries in the area."

A Dorset Police spokesperson said: "Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240163072.

"Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111."