Seven people have now been taken to hospital following an incident in Swanage in which three people died this morning.
The deaths are currently being treated as unexplained.
Dorset Police has confirmed that a carbon monoxide poisoning is the primary line of enquiry and that there is no further risk to the wider public.
South Western Ambulance Service, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, and Dorset Police, are working together on the investigation which continues into the evening.
Chief Superintendent Heather Dixey’s full statement said: “At 7.16am on Wednesday 23 October 2024 we received a report regarding three residents who had been found deceased at the Gainsborough Care Home in Ulwell Road.
“This prompted a large multi-agency emergency response involving officers from Dorset Police, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and South Western Ambulance Service.
“The Coroner and the families of those who have died were informed and our heart-felt thoughts and condolences go out to them during this extremely difficult time. Seven people have been taken to hospital as a precaution and other residents of the address have been evacuated to a location where they can receive appropriate care. They are being supported by Dorset Council and the health service.
“The deaths are currently being treated as unexplained and we are continuing to liaise with our partner agencies to establish the full circumstances of what has happened.
“A significant multi-agency presence will remain in the area – including a police cordon – as we work with our partners to carry out an investigation.
“Following early enquiries, I can confirm that potential carbon monoxide poisoning is our primary line of enquiry, but I would stress that there is nothing to indicate that there is currently any risk to the wider public.
“Swanage is a close-knit community and I know these very sad deaths will have a significant impact on everyone here. I would like to thank members of the community for the respect, care and kindness they have shown towards one another, with many of them going out of their way to offer help and support to those who have been affected.
“We will continue to provide updates in relation to our investigation as and when we can and I would like to ask the public to refrain from any speculation out of respect for all those affected today.”