Blackpool Victoria Hospital stroke unit poison probe continues but police say there’s ‘no update’ to give

The investigation into the suspected poisoning of patients – and murder of one – on the stroke unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital continues, police said today.
By The Newsroom
Published 21st Mar 2019, 13:05 BST
Updated 21st Mar 2019, 13:08 BST
Zopliclone given to a patient on the stroke unit at Blackpool Victoria HospitalZopliclone given to a patient on the stroke unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital
Zopliclone given to a patient on the stroke unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital

The force said three nurses arrested remain on bail pending further enquiries, but a spokesman told The Gazette there was “no update” to give.

The complex investigation started last November and is focusing on allegations that patients were given prescription-only drugs to keep them heavily sedated during the night.

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Funerals were halted to allow for tests to be carried out, though police have not yet said how many poisoning victims, if any, have been identified.

Suspicious injuries were found on Blackpool woman Valerie Kneale, 75, after her death, however, with detectives launching a separate murder inquiry as a result.