Double Tragedy in Surry Hills: Two Elderly Men Found Dead in Home, Believed to Have Died Weeks Apart

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA — July 3, 2025 — A quiet residential address on Cleveland Street in Surry Hills has become the focus of a police investigation after the bodies of two elderly men were discovered inside the home under unsettling circumstances. New South Wales Police say the men are believed to have died at different times over the past month, and the case is now being closely examined by detectives.

Police were called to the property around 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, after neighbors expressed concern about the welfare of the residents. Officers who responded to the call found the body of one man in a room of the home. A further search revealed the body of a second man in another part of the house.

The property was immediately sealed off and declared a crime scene, as investigators worked into the evening to gather evidence and begin building a timeline of events.

Men Believed to Have Died Weeks Apart

Police believe the two men, who are yet to be formally identified, were in their 70s and 80s. Early findings suggest the deaths were not simultaneous and may have occurred days or even weeks apart.

A spokesperson for NSW Police stated that post-mortem examinations would be conducted to determine the cause and estimated time of death.

“At this point, the circumstances remain unclear,” the spokesperson said. “But initial assessments indicate the deaths did not happen at the same time.”

63-Year-Old Woman Spoke With Detectives

A 63-year-old woman who also lived at the Cleveland Street address has spoken with police. Detectives confirm that she is cooperating and assisting with inquiries. Her relationship to the deceased men is still under investigation, and no charges have been filed at this stage.

Police have not said whether she was present at the time of either man’s death or if she was aware of the situation unfolding inside the home.

Surry Hills Community Shocked

Cleveland Street, known for its historic homes, small businesses, and bustling urban energy, is one of Sydney’s most recognizable inner-city stretches. The idea that two men could die within the same residence, possibly weeks apart, without notice has left residents stunned.

“It’s really disturbing. You just don’t expect this in a neighborhood like ours,” said David McAllister, who lives nearby. “I pass by that house almost every day. This is something you don’t forget easily.”

Neighbors mentioned a “bad smell” coming from the property over the past week, but most assumed it was something minor. Others noted they occasionally saw a woman entering and exiting the house but had no idea anything was wrong.

Police Appeal for Information

Detectives from the Sydney City Police Area Command and NSW Homicide Squad are leading the investigation. They are urging anyone who may have noticed unusual activity near the Cleveland Street residence in recent weeks to come forward.

Police are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who:

• Noticed changes in routine or activity at the residence

• Observed visitors to the property

• Heard anything unusual from the home

Anyone with information is asked to contact Surry Hills Police Station or call Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. Tips can also be submitted anonymously via www.crimestoppers.com.au.

“No matter how small it seems, any information may be crucial to understanding what happened,” said the investigating officer.

Broader Concerns About Elder Isolation

While the investigation is still in its early stages, advocates and elder support groups have already raised concerns about the underlying issue of social isolation among older residents.

“It’s a heartbreaking reminder that there are people in our community who are suffering alone,” said Angela Rowe, a spokesperson for Elder Watch NSW. “Two men have died, and no one even realized for possibly weeks. That should never happen.”

As the police investigation continues, the incident has sparked wider conversations around community responsibility, regular welfare checks, and ensuring the elderly are not forgotten or left alone without support.

Key Details:

• Two men in their 70s and 80s found dead in a home on Cleveland Street, Surry Hills

• Believed to have died at different times over the past month

• A 63-year-old woman living at the address is cooperating with police

• Investigators are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant information