FORMER neighbours of a 93-year-old man who was tasered by police in his care home have told of their horror at discovering he died in hospital just three weeks later.

Officers were called to reports of a one legged man with dementia who had been threatening staff at his St Leonard’s care home with a knife on Tuesday, June 21.

Donald Burgess was in his wheelchair when one of the officers tried to retrieve the knife using PAVA spray and a baton before another used their taser and handcuffed him.

The Argus: Donald Burgess was 93 when he diedDonald Burgess was 93 when he died (Image: Donald Burgess)

Donald was taken to hospital after the incident but died on Wednesday, July 13 – though the cause of death is not yet known.

Last night neighbours at his former home in Battle said they were “stunned and shocked” by his tragic death.

One neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said: “Oh what a tragedy. He was a lovely, sociable man. He and his wife, Ethel, lived here for years and they were a lovely couple.

“Ethel got cancer and the last time she went into a hospice I promised her I’d look after her Don. This is so upsetting. I can’t believe it. How terrible.”

She said Mr Burgess, a retired carpenter, had suffered from diabetes for some time and had to have his leg amputated as a result.

“After Ethel died he had his own carers,” the neighbour said.

“But after he had his leg amputated he only came back for one night before he had to go into a care home.”

Two officers from Sussex Police are now under criminal investigation for manslaughter and have been issued with gross misconduct notices.

The Argus: Police used a taser on Donald at his care homePolice used a taser on Donald at his care home

Another former neighbour said: “He must have developed dementia after he went into the care home because he was always fine when he was here. We liked him. He was a friendly old guy. I think the death of his wife hit him very hard.”

While another resident said the couple were childless and had to rely on carers in their later years.

“They were both lovely,” said one.

“I don’t remember Don having any hobbies like gardening or watching sport but I know he liked to watch the TV. He was a nice, gentle old man. What has happened to him has left me stunned and shocked. It’s absolutely dreadful.”

Another resident said: “How dreadful. I knew him quite well to pass the time of day with. He was a lovely old man.”

Sussex Police said it is supporting the independent investigation.

Assistant chief constable Tanya Jones said: “We want to express our sympathies to the family and friends of Mr Burgess. Our thoughts remain with them at this difficult time.

“We are providing every assistance to the IOPC to allow for a thorough investigation and for the family to receive the answers they need.”