Police are investigating 5 deaths linked to the coronavirus covid-19 at a care residence in Devon.

In an replace launched this morning, Devon and Cornwall Police stated they had been ‘persevering with to research the circumstances of the outbreak’ at a Holmesley care residence in Sidford, east Devon.

A power spokesperson stated: “A big variety of residents and employees have examined optimistic for COVID-19 and there have now been 5 deaths since Sunday March 6. The deceased residents all examined optimistic for COVID-19.

“Ten residents are being handled at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital with COVID-19. A employees member is presently hospitalized with COVID-19.

“Whereas the employees are self-isolating, company employees have been introduced in to look after residents who keep at residence.

“The police investigation was opened following considerations concerning the epidemic.

“As a part of their investigations, officers spoke to employees and searched the home. Autopsies had been carried out on three of the deceased residents.

“The investigation is presently being carried out by Devon and Cornwall Police in partnership with a Multi-Company Backup Response to take care of safety for these residents in the home.”

Chief Superintendent Dan Evans, Commander North East and West Devon, stated: “I’ve little question there will likely be considerations locally relating to this incident and we’re doing all the pieces we will to assist these households. bereaved, whereas working with companions to speak with these with kin again residence.

“It is a complicated investigation involving ourselves and multi-agency companions with the safety of residents at its coronary heart.

“There’s important work underway to know the present scenario and transfer the investigation ahead as shortly as attainable, whereas sustaining the protection of nursing residence residents, employees, police and employees of companion companies.