Two pensioners mysteriously found dead inside property in Darlington were married couple, police confirm

Two pensioners who were mysteriously found dead in their Darlington home were a married couple, police have confirmed.

Brian Swaddle, 86, and his wife Olwyn, 84, were found inside their home on Park Crescent in Darlington last Friday by emergency services.

Police and crime scene investigators remained at the scene for several days and were pictured taking photographs inside the home.

Durham police launched an investigation into the cause of the couple’s ‘unexpected’ deaths and are urging locals with information that could help to come forward.

In a statement, Durham Constabulary said: ‘An investigation is continuing as officers work to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths of two people at their home in Park Crescent, Darlington. 

Police and crime scene investigators at the house in Darlington where Mr and Mrs Swaddle were found dead

Brian Swaddle, 86, and his wife Olwyn, 84, were found inside their home on Park Crescent in Darlington on Friday by emergency services

’86-year-old Brian Swaddle and his wife Olwyn, 84, were found shortly before 5.30pm, on Friday, May 17. Their deaths are currently being treated as unexpected.

‘Officers are still keen to hear from anyone who may have seen them between Thursday, May 9 and Friday, May 17 to get in touch.

‘Anyone with any information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident reference 312 of May 17.’

Neighbours had previously reacted with shock and upset at the large police presence on the street, with one calling Brian ‘the nicest bloke you will ever meet’.

Officers were spotted around the home for several days following the discovery, unnerving some residents.

One said: ‘The police have been hanging around for three days now – there has always been someone there since Saturday.

‘You could see them walking around inside the house in white suits with flashlights at night.’