Police Investigate After Two Elderly Men Found Dead in Cleveland Street Home

A quiet Cleveland Street home became the centre of a police investigation last week after two elderly men were discovered dead inside the residence.

NSW Police responded to a welfare concern at the Cleveland Street address on Thursday afternoon, 3 July, at approximately 2pm. Officers from Surry Hills Police Area Command established a crime scene after locating the first body inside the home, with a second man’s remains found in another room shortly after.

The deceased men, now identified as aged 74 and 83, are believed to have died at different times within the past month. Police have confirmed the deaths are not believed to be suspicious.

A 63-year-old woman who lived at the property, identified as Eleanor Barker, has been interviewed by detectives as part of the investigation. According to reports, Barker owned the Cleveland Street property since the 1980s and had rented it to the two men for at least a decade.

Local residents expressed shock at the discovery, with some describing the men as familiar faces in the neighbourhood. The community had grown accustomed to seeing them around the area over the years.

The investigation began after a friend of Barker contacted police with welfare concerns, prompting the initial response from authorities. Detectives spent time in the area conducting door-to-door enquiries to establish a timeline of when the men were last seen alive.

Neighbours reported the property appeared somewhat run-down, with some unsure whether people actively lived there. However, those who knew the residents described friendly interactions with them over recent times.

Police have stated that a report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner, which is standard procedure in such cases. No arrests have been made in connection with the deaths.

The Cleveland Street address remains part of the ongoing investigation as authorities work to piece together the final weeks of the two men’s lives.

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Surry Hills Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information can also be provided online at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au, with all reports treated confidentially.

The matter will now proceed through the coronial process to formally determine the cause of death for both men.

Published 4-July-2025