Murder inquiry launched as pensioner dies after being conned by burglars
Speaking outside Ms Mottershead's substantial detached property, named Lawnside, Supt Payne said one of the offenders had claimed to be a water official to trick his way into the house.
The officer told reporters: "Our understanding is that a male knocked on the front door of a 90-year-old lady's house.
"He spoke to her about inspecting some pipes and when she has opened the door another two males have pushed past into the house.
"They then proceeded for about half an hour to search (the house) and they then left.
"Hester Mottershead then rang the police, but unfortunately when we arrived she was in some difficulty.
"The officers tried to help her and called an ambulance. Unfortunately, she was taken to hospital and she passed away of what is believed to be a stroke."
He urged those responsible for the death to give themselves up, the officer added: "This is a tragic series of events and a terrible way for a 90-year-old lady to end her life.
"She was extremely distressed. She was a 90-year-old lady and there are very few circumstances that could be any more distressing than having three people in your house searching while you are in there."
Officers have yet to establish what, if any, property was taken by the offenders.
Appealing for information from witnesses, Supt Payne added: "This is amongst the most distressing circumstances that I have come across as a police officer.
"I would appeal to (the offenders) to come forward and more importantly, I would appeal to people who live with them - who may have elderly relatives - to come forward and help us bring these men to justice."
Although a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death has yet to take place, officers are treating the investigation as a murder inquiry.
The offenders are described as in their late teens or early 20s.
Detective Inspector Andy Hawkins, leading the investigation, said: "We believe the offenders searched the whole house which would have taken at least half an hour.
"We are appealing for anyone who may have seen three people acting suspiciously in the area or the wider Tettenhall area during yesterday afternoon to contact us with information.
"Ms Mottershead's relatives will be supported by specialist family liaison officers and our thoughts are with them at this time."
Neighbours said the victim had taught at schools in both Bilston, West Midlands, and Wolverhampton.
It is thought Ms Mottershead had resided at the substantial detached property for about a decade, initially living there with a friend who died around three years ago.
One neighbour, who declined to be named, said: "She was previously a headteacher and she was a highly respected lady.
"She didn't get out very much but I saw her every Friday because I put her bins out for her.
"What has happened is tragic - it's tragic for her and it's a solemn warning for the rest of us frankly."
Another resident, who was also reluctant to give his name, said: "I used to say hello, no more than that, but she was very friendly."
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