BARTON COUNTY – The Barton County Sheriff’s Office is investigation the death of a 49-year-old woman who died at a home in north of Great Bend Thursday afternoon. The victim’s name is being withheld pending notification of family.

According to Sheriff Brian Bellendir, at about 4:30 p.m. Thursday, BCSO officers were dispatched to a residence in the Barton Hills subdivision. Neighbors reported they had not seen the individual for a few days and requested deputies conduct a welfare check.

Upon arrival, the officers forced entry into the residence and discovered the body.

Barton County Coroner Dr. E. L. Jones, was called to the scene to assist with the investigation. Initial indications put the cause of death as hyperthermia combined with other health issues.

“The Sheriff’s Office wishes to remind people to check on the elderly and people who have health issues that may not be able to tolerate the extreme temperatures expected for the next 10 days,” Bellendir said. “Anyone working outside is advised to drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity during the extreme heat of the day.” 

Hyperthermia and dehydration can induce heat exhaustion or heatstroke which may be debilitating or fatal. Persons with other medical issues are particularly susceptible to these conditions.