Two ambulance workers arrested over six deaths in Wiltshire

Two workers from an ambulance service have been arrested as part of a significant two-year investigation into six deaths in Wiltshire.

Police stated that a man in his 30s was arrested last year on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter and four counts of ill-treatment or willful neglect by a care worker.

In March of this year, a 59-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker said: "We can confirm that a significant investigation is underway concerning several adult deaths in and around Wiltshire.

"This investigation has been ongoing since an initial report was made to Wiltshire Police in 2023, and detailed inquiries have been undertaken since to determine the facts.

"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 willful neglect by a care worker.

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

Both individuals, who were employed by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), have been released on bail while the investigation continues.

The force stated it is concentrating on supporting the families of those who have died.

A spokesperson for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: “As soon as the trust became aware of any concerns, we immediately initiated an internal investigation which resulted in a prompt police referral, and we have been working closely with them as part of the ongoing investigation.

“Two members of staff were suspended.

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

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

“Please continue to call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.

“One of the two individuals who were initially suspended is no longer employed by the trust.

“Due to the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this stage.”

The Care Quality Commission told The Independent they were aware of the police investigation but are not currently involved.

The trust’s last inspection by the watchdog found the organization to be "good".

The report stated: "Our rating of the trust improved. We rated it as good overall because: Caring was rated as outstanding.

"Effective, responsive, and well-led were rated as good. Both effective and well-led improved from requires improvement at our 2016 inspection, with responsive remaining as good.

"Well-led at the trust level was rated as good. However, safe remained as requires improvement.