News

Stepping Hill deaths inquiry: Two male patients named 18.07.2011

Stepping Hill deaths inquiry: Two male patients named

 

Two men who died after saline solution was deliberately tampered with at a Stockport hospital have been named.

George Keep, 84, from Cheadle, and Arnold Lancaster, 71 of Romiley, died at Stepping Hill Hospital last week.

Their deaths are being treated as unexplained along with that of Tracey Arden, 44, who died on 7 July.

Detectives believe insulin was injected into saline containers which were used by at least two wards at the Greater Manchester hospital.

Post-mortem examinations are being carried out on the three former patients but the results are not expected to be released for several days.

Police said Mr Keep was admitted to the hospital on 27 June and died on 14 July.

His family paid tribute to a devoted family man, calling him a "devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather".

"George had, in his younger years, been a hard-working Cheadle/Gatley man who was enjoying his retirement with the family and friends in spite of his failing health," they said.

His daughter Carolyn Knowles spoke of her dismay at learning her father's death could be suspicious and that his burial would have to be delayed because of the inquiry.

To continue reading this article please visit http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-14178044