Yahoo Movies Widow, 93, dies from 'broken heart syndrome' after burglars ransack her home
An elderly woman who was subjected to a horrific burglary by men masquerading as police officers has died in hospital from "broken heart syndrome".
Betty Munroe, 93, had her "sense of security robbed" after she was targeted at her home on Kettering Road North, Northampton, at around 11pm on June 11.
Three thugs forced entry to her home with garden shears and, once inside, told the pensioner they were police officers.
The men ransacked the property in front of her and stole her jewellery, including her late husband’s watch, her purse and her bank cards.
The thieves also took a gold chain from around her neck.
Following the ordeal, Mrs Munroe's health deteriorated and she was diagnosed with PTSD.
She suffered with repeated nightmares, as well as trouble sleeping, being sick and being unable to stop shaking.
Following a lengthy stay in hospital with heart trouble, she was eventually diagnosed with Takotsubo Syndrome - also known as “broken heart syndrome” - and sadly died this week.
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In a statement released by Northamptonshire Police, Betty's family said: "The distressing circumstances of our lovely mum’s death have caused us so much sorrow.
"Before the burglary she was happy and living independently in her home of 56 years.
"The violent actions of these callous individuals robbed her not only of precious possessions, but of her sense of security and peace and the will to go on.
"All the generations of our family who owe her so much are bereft at her death."
Detective Inspector Simon Barnes, of Northampton CID, said: “This is one of the saddest cases I have come across during my career and a stark reminder of how deeply a burglary can affect a victim.
“Betty was in good health before this incident but she deteriorated very quickly after it and sadly died in her care home this week, surrounded by her family.
“I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone who has any information about the burglary in June to please contact us, no matter how insignificant you think your information might be.
"If you want to do it anonymously, instead of calling us on 101, you can speak to Crimestoppers on 0800 55511 or use their online reporting form at the crimestoppers website.”
