A POLICE investigation is underway after a carer found an elderly couple dead in their North-East home.

The carer made the shocking discovery at Biddick Villas, near Biddick Academy, in the Columbia area of Washington, on Wearside, this morning (Friday, April 11).

Officers were called to the semi-detached bungalow shortly before 10.30am and paramedics rushed to the scene, but both the man and the woman were pronounced dead in the home.

Later, police named the couple as Kenneth and Edna Fisher, who were aged 76 and 74, respectively.

The pensioners’ home remains cordoned off by police as officers carry out inquiries to establish how they died.

But Detective Chief Inspector Christina Barrett, of Northumbria Police’s major crime team, who is leading the investigation, said no-one else is thought to have been involved.

“This investigation is at an early stage, however, there is nothing to suggest there is any threat to the wider community.

“Early indications are that no-one else has been involved in these deaths but our enquiries continue to establish exactly what has taken place.

“Anyone with information they believe could assist us is asked to come forward.”

Neighbours of Mr and Mrs Fisher have expressed their shock at their deaths.

Extra officers have been sent to the area to carry out “reassurance patrols” and speak to nearby residents.

Chief Inspector Dave Willett, from the force’s Sunderland Area Command, said: “I understand people may feel concerned following this incident and we will have officers in the area to offer reassurance.

“Anyone with concerns should speak to officers on patrol or by calling their local neighbourhood policing team.”

Anyone who can assist the police investigation into the couple’s deaths should call Northumbria Police on 101, extension 69191, quoting log number 371 11/04/14.