Two SWASFT staff arrested over six Wiltshire deaths

Two employees of the South Western Ambulance Service have been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with a police investigation into six adult deaths in and around Wiltshire, authorities said. The inquiry, opened after an initial report to Wiltshire Police in 2023, led to the arrest of a man in his 30s from West Wiltshire in June 2024 and a 59 year old woman in March this year. Both have been released on conditional bail while inquiries continue.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker of the Major Crime Investigation Team said the force had carried out "detailed enquiries" since the initial report and confirmed the woman was arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter and the man on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter and four counts of ill treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker. He added that the investigation remains focused on supporting the families and loved ones of those who have died and asked the media to respect their privacy.

Both suspects were employed by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. The trust said it launched an internal investigation as soon as concerns emerged and made...