An elderly woman found dead outside her Dannevirke home after a suspected gas heater tragedy has been formally identified as 92-year-old Mona Grace Stewart.
Mrs Stewart was discovered by a caregiver around 10am yesterday morning (Wednesday, 24 June). It is believed that the dressing gown she was wearing caught light on the gas heater in her home.
The death has been referred to the Coroner and a post mortem examination will be carried out. Police made enquiries locally yesterday and liaised with a fire safety officer at the scene. The gas heater and gas bottle in question have been recovered by police and will be thoroughly checked out. Fragments of burned clothing were also recovered by police in the event further examination of these items is required.
The death is not being treated as suspicious at this time.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 06 351 2546 or 027 234 8256.