Two employees of the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) have been arrested as part of a major investigation into the deaths of six people in Wiltshire, United Kingdom, authorities have confirmed. The probe, which began in 2023, remains ongoing and has led to several arrests so far.
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 suspects, who were employed by SWASFT, have been released on conditional bail while inquiries continue.
Walker emphasized that police are prioritizing support for the families of those who died and urged the media to respect their privacy.
A spokesperson for SWASFT confirmed that the trust acted promptly after concerns were raised by suspending the two staff members and notifying police. “The suspension of the two members of staff meant that they were immediately relieved of all duties, including the treatment of patients,” the statement read, adding that one of the individuals is no longer employed by the trust.
The trust assured the public that this is an isolated case and there is no ongoing risk to patient safety. “Please continue to call 999 in a life-threatening emergency,” the spokesperson said.
The Care Quality Commission’s most recent inspection rated SWASFT as “good” overall, with its “caring” category rated “outstanding,” although “safe” practices were noted as still requiring improvement. The trust reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety and its cooperation with ongoing investigations.