Elderly woman dies five days after husband found dead

Adelphi Place, Portobello. Picture: Lisa Ferguson

Officers went to a property in Adelphi Place, in Portobello, on Sunday after concern was raised about the welfare of the occupants.

After forcing entry to the home, they discovered the body of 88-year-old Douglas Iggulden.

His 89-year-old wife, Elizabeth, was found seriously ill and was taken to hospital where she died on Friday evening.

Police Scotland is facing an independent investigation into its response to a call which led to the discovery of the body.

The force said that a woman in her 80s died at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

The death is being treated as unexplained but there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances.

Superintendent Alan Porte said: “Police Scotland can confirm that a woman in her 80s passed away tonight at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

“Our condolences are with her family at this time and we continue to offer support to them as required.

“This death is in connection with an incident that occurred within a property on Adelphi Place on Sunday, September 27. The death is currently being treated as unexplained, however the circumstances are not believed to be suspicious.

“A report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.”

The Crown Office has directed the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner to look into Police Scotland’s initial response to the call to the address.

It is understood the probe focuses on timing of the police response.