Two ambulance service workers have been apprehended in connection with an investigation into six fatalities in Wiltshire, according to authorities.
Wiltshire Police disclosed that a man in his thirties from the western region of the county was taken into custody on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter and four counts of ill-treatment or intentional neglect by a care provider. Additionally, a 59-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. Both individuals have been granted bail.
The inquiry was initiated in 2023. Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, from the Major Crime Investigation Team at Wiltshire Police, stated that a comprehensive investigation is ongoing regarding multiple adult deaths in and around Wiltshire. The investigation began following an initial report to Wiltshire Police in 2023, and substantial inquiries have been conducted since then to establish the facts.
“In June 2024, a man in his thirties from West Wiltshire was arrested on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter and four counts of ill-treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker. Additionally, in March of this year, a 59-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. Both suspects have been released on conditional bail as investigations continue,” said Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker.
The focus is on providing support to the families and loved ones of the deceased, and the media is urged to respect their privacy during this period. Both individuals were employed by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.
A representative for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust mentioned, “Upon becoming aware of any concerns, the trust promptly launched an internal investigation that led to an immediate police referral. The trust has been cooperating closely with the authorities throughout the ongoing probe.”
“Two staff members were suspended, relieving them of all duties, including patient care. We want to assure the public that this is an isolated incident with no ongoing risk to patients. In a life-threatening emergency, please continue to dial 999,” the spokesperson added.
“One of the suspended individuals is no longer employed by the trust. Due to the ongoing investigation, no further comments will be provided at this stage.”
