Claire Reid
A 95-year-old woman is in ‘critical condition’ after being tasered by police at her nursing home.
Clare Nowland, who has dementia, was tasered by police at a New South Wales nursing home and is now ‘fighting for her life’.
According to 7News, Ms Nowland was seen carrying a knife while using her walking frame, prompting concerned staff to call the police.
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After arriving on the scene, cops attempted to disarm Ms Nowland, but their attempts were unsuccessful and she was tasered by officers.
In a statement, New South Wales Police have said: “A critical incident investigation has been launched after an elderly woman sustained injuries during an interaction with police at an aged care facility.
“The 95-year-old woman was taken to Cooma District Hospital, where her condition is being monitored.
“A critical incident team will now investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“That investigation will be subject to independent review.”
A spokesperson New South Wales Police Minister Yasmin Catley said: “We understand NSW Police have declared a critical incident investigation and will take whatever action is appropriate.
“Our thoughts and best wishes are with Mrs Nowland and her family.”
As yet no update on Nowland’s health has been given, but her family reportedly remain at her bedside.
A spokesperson for Snowy Monaro Regional Council, which runs the nursing home, told news.com.au: “Council are supporting our staff, residents, and families during this difficult time.
“No further comment is available at the current time due to the ongoing investigation, and out of respect for the privacy of those involved.”
The council told the Daily Mail that staff followed the correct procedure.
Ms Nowland had been an active member of her community and was a member of the Cooma Golf Club and St Patrick's Parish, the Daily Mail reports.
Former St Patrick's Parish Priest Mick MacAndrew told the publication the family were well-known within the church and that she would attend mass every day until she became too poorly.
“They were a very devoted family here, going back to her own parents,” Father MacAndrew said.
Ms Nowland also worked at St Vincent de Paul for several years.
Father MacAndrew added: “She was a member of St Vincent's de Paul in Cooma and she would help out at the school when her children were there.”
The incident will be reported to Australia’s Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.