Three people have been found dead at Gainsborough Care Home in Swanage, Dorset, police have confirmed. Emergency services responded to a call shortly after 7:15am this morning, and a multi-agency investigation is now underway to determine the cause of this tragic event.
In a statement, Dorset Police said: “The deaths are currently being treated as unexplained and an investigation has been launched to establish the full circumstances of what happened.” The force also confirmed that a significant police presence remains at the scene, with the property cordoned off to facilitate ongoing enquiries. Police have reassured the public, stating that there is no indication of a wider threat to the community.
Four other individuals have been taken to hospital as a precautionary measure, and the entire care home has been evacuated. Gainsborough Care Home, which accommodates 48 elderly residents, some with dementia, is managed by Agincare. Following the evacuation, residents were moved to a nearby church hall, with several of them requiring wheelchairs. Extra staffing resources have been deployed to ensure their care and safety during this difficult time.
Suspicion of Carbon Monoxide Involvement
A local councillor, Gary Suttle, expressed his condolences, describing the situation as a “tragic event.” He added that there is a “suspicion” that carbon monoxide poisoning could be involved, although this has not yet been confirmed. Southern Gas Network (SGN) engineers have been dispatched to the site and are waiting for access to carry out safety checks. A spokesperson for SGN said, “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic incident.”
Cllr Suttle praised the local community for their support, with residents coming together to assist the displaced care home residents. Locals brought blankets to the church where evacuees are sheltering, providing comfort and demonstrating what Suttle called “great community support.”
Emergency Response
South Western Ambulance Service was called to the scene at 5:20am, deploying a hazardous area response team, ten ambulances, and a number of additional resources. Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service also responded, with four crews on site, and were later joined by two crews from Hampshire and the Isle of Wight services. Firefighters are working in collaboration with police, ambulance services, and other agencies to resolve the situation.
Group manager Neil Tidball of the fire service confirmed the multi-agency response: “Firefighters are working with Dorset Police, South West Ambulance Service and other partners to resolve this incident.”
Community Shock and Support
The incident has deeply affected the Swanage community, with many shocked by the sudden loss of life. In their statement, Dorset Police acknowledged the profound impact on local residents and expressed their sympathy to the families of those who died. “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,” the statement read.
As the investigation progresses, further updates are expected from the authorities, and the exact cause of the tragedy remains to be determined.
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