Healthcare worker arrested on suspicion of murdering a patient at a Blackpool hospital
A healthcare professional has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of a patient, who died at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.
The man is questioned by detectives in connection with the death of Valerie Kneale, 75, who suffered a haemorrhage while being treated at the hospital’s stroke unit in November 2018.
Police said the hospital staff member had also been arrested on suspicion of two offences of rape and one of sexual assault against two patients and a fellow worker.
The suspect has been suspended by Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
Detectives launched an investigation into activities at the Lancashire hospital in the autumn of 2018 following allegations that patients had been poisoned, neglected and mistreated on the stroke unit.
A post-mortem examination on Mrs Kneale, who died on 16 November 2018, was one of a number carried out as part of the mistreatment investigation.
While her death was not thought to be connected to the poisoning allegations, it was concluded that she had died as a result of bleeding caused by a non medical related injury and a murder investigation was launched in February 2019.
A statement issued by her family at the time said they were "completely and utterly devastated and heartbroken to have lost Val in these circumstances."
They added: "She was the most precious wife, mother and grandmother, our constant friend and problem-solver who we will miss dearly."
Lancashire Police said as a result of that investigation further allegations related to the rape and sexual assault of patients and staff had also been received.
A spokesman for the force said: “Following enquiries, a healthcare professional has been arrested on suspicion of murder, two offences of rape and one offence of sexual assault. He is currently in custody.
“The arrest is not linked to the ongoing investigation into allegations of poisoning and neglect.”
Detective Chief Inspector Jill Johnston said: “We have today arrested a man in connection with a number of serious offences.
“We understand this will cause some significant concern in the community but please be reassured we have a dedicated team of officers conducting a number of enquiries.
“These are complicated and sensitive allegations which we are committed to investigating thoroughly.
“We are offering support to those involved and they are being updated throughout the process by trained officers.
“Our priority and the priority of Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is to ensure the safety of patients. We are working closely with the Trust as well as HM Coroner for Blackpool and Fylde as part of the investigation.
“If you have any information or have worked on the stroke unit and can assist with our enquiries, please come forward and speak to police immediately.”
The investigation into alleged poisonings remains ongoing. Seven people have been arrested and released as part of that inquiry.
