Two ambulance service workers have been arrested in connection with a major investigation into the deaths of six people in Wiltshire, United Kingdom, authorities confirmed. The probe, which began in 2023, has already seen several arrests and ongoing inquiries.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker of Wiltshire Police’s major crime team said the investigation “has been ongoing since an initial report was made to Wiltshire Police in 2023 and detailed inquiries have been undertaken since to ascertain the facts.”
As part of the investigation, a man in his 30s was arrested in June 2024 on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter and four counts of ill-treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker. In March 2025, a 59-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. Both individuals, employed by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), have been released on conditional bail while inquiries continue.
Walker added, “Our focus is on supporting the families and loved ones of those who have died, and we would ask the media to respect their privacy at this time.”
A spokesperson for SWASFT said the trust acted immediately upon learning of any concerns, launching an internal investigation and referring the matter to police. “Two members of staff were suspended. The suspension of the two members of staff meant that they were immediately relieved of all duties, including the treatment of patients,” the statement noted. One of the two individuals initially suspended is no longer employed by the trust.
The trust reassured the public that this is an isolated situation with no ongoing risk to patients. “Please continue to call 999 in a life-threatening emergency,” the spokesperson added.
The Care Quality Commission’s last inspection rated SWASFT as “good” overall, noting that “caring was rated as outstanding” while safe practices “remained as requires improvement.” The trust has emphasized its continued commitment to patient safety and cooperation with authorities during the investigation.
