90-year-old dies after sexual assault in residential home

A 90-year-old woman who was sexually assaulted in her room at a nursing home two weeks ago in Bateau Bay has died.

Police allege 34-year-old Brett Anthony Crawford, who lives in a nearby town, broke into the facility in the Central Coast region about 12.40am on November 15 and attacked the resident.

The woman was taken to hospital suffering serious injuries and police were notified that she died on Tuesday.

Mr Crawford is facing numerous serious charges including aggravated break and enter, inflicting actual bodily harm with intent to have sexual intercourse, aggravated sexual assault (break and enter) and aggravated sexual assault (inflict actual bodily harm on victim).

He was arrested two days after the alleged assault at a home near Lake Macquarie, and was taken to hospital for minor arm injuries sustained during the attack.

He has since been taken to a forensic hospital for assessment and a review of his mental health and medication.

The man allegedly covered the woman's mouth with bedding and pinned down her arms and legs, causing a significant amount of damage to her head and limbs.

Sex Crimes Squad commander Jayne Doherty said it was an opportunistic attack that left the woman with a severe amount of trauma.

"That someone, any person in the safety of their home would be attacked like this, but to attack a very defenceless old lady is beyond belief," she said.

"As you can understand, being elderly, her skin has torn significantly where pressure was applied."

The aged care home has hired extra security, although police said they had no ongoing safety concerns.

The case is adjourned until February next year where Mr Crawford will stand before the Gosford Local Court.

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