Two ambulance service workers arrested as part of investigation into six deaths in Wiltshire

Two ambulance service workers have been arrested as part of a major investigation into six deaths in Wiltshire.

A man in his 30s was held on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter and four counts of ill-treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker, according to Wiltshire Police.

A 59-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter.

Both were employed by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) and have been released on bail.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, who is leading the investigation, said enquiries remain ongoing since an initial report was made in 2023.

"In June 2024, we arrested a man in his 30s from West Wiltshire on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter and four counts of ill-treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker," he said.

"In addition, in March this year we arrested a 59-year-old woman on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter."

A SWASFT spokesman said the trust "immediately initiated an internal investigation" once they were made aware of concerns.

That resulted in a "prompt police referral", he said.

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"Two members of staff were suspended," he added.

"The suspension of the two members of staff meant that they were immediately relieved of all duties, including the treatment of patients.

"We would like to reassure people that this is an isolated situation and there is no ongoing risk to patients."

One of the two individuals who were initially suspended is no longer working at the trust, he said.

(c) Sky News 2025: Two ambulance service workers arrested as part of investigation into six deaths in Wiltshire