Police have revealed an elderly man may have been dead in his Wagga home for more than a month before he was discovered.
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About 2.20am on November 22, Riverina Police District officers were patrolling Wagga when they noticed items strewn across the front yard of a house on Edward Street.
Police searched the property and found a man, believed to be aged in his 70s, deceased in a mobility chair.
Officers believe the man had been dead for a number of weeks, and are not treating his death as suspicious.
At the time, a spokesperson said police were investigating whether a break-in had occurred.
On Monday, NSW Police told The Daily Advertiser that inquiries are continuing into a possible break and enter at the address on the evening of November 21.
Lex Bittar, the chairman of Wagga Meals on Wheels, said the death was a tragedy and a stark reminder of why residents should make an effort to check in with elderly members of the community.
"It happens too often, and it is hard to understand why it happens," he said.
"We need to look more closely at finding people who are happy to check in with their fellow neighbours.
"In some ways, that is what Meals on Wheels is for as when delivering we always make sure the person is OK."
IN OTHER NEWS:
Wagga resident and former councillor Mary Kidson said as the city grows, it is starting to lose community spirit.
"In a smaller community, it is much easier to notice if someone is missing or not around," she said.
Mrs Kidson said being a widow has made her acutely aware just how often elderly people are left alone.
"It is so important that we build a tight community without being intrusive," she said.
"It does not hurt to pop by and say hello or even drop off a cake, and lots of people do not even have family in Wagga because they may have moved or passed away.
"Luckily, even though I have only been in this particular house for five years, I have people who walk past and check-in.
Anyone with information about the possible break and enter on Edward Street is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Wagga police station on 6922 2599.