An elderly couple, potentially overcome by Melbourne’s scorching heatwave, was found deceased outside their residence in Warrandyte. Doyne Caspersz and his wife Marlene were discovered around 9:30 am on Tuesday at their Antigoni Court home. CCTV footage suggests they succumbed to the extreme heat on Sunday, with temperatures soaring to 38°C in Warrandyte.
The reason behind their departure from their home, situated in an affluent Melbourne neighborhood, remains unknown. Melbourne was in the throes of a severe heatwave, with temperatures reaching 36°C on Monday while the couple lay undiscovered outside their property.
A detective at the scene described the couple’s demise as a tragic accident, ruling it as misadventure. Residents expressed shock, describing the friendly octogenarian couple who typically kept to themselves but greeted neighbors in passing.
Mrs. Caspersz’s struggle with Alzheimer’s disease was known to neighbors, with both her husband and children providing care. Their son, deeply affected by the incident, rejected suggestions of misadventure, insisting it was a tragic accident.
The community mourned Mr. Caspersz, an enthusiastic gardener and active member of Melbourne’s Sri Lankan community. He served as the vice president of the Burgher Association, representing the Sri Lankan ethnic group in Australia.
Police confirmed the deaths were not suspicious, awaiting the results of a postmortem examination. Neighbors remembered Mr. Caspersz fondly, highlighting his willingness to help others despite his age.
