Wiltshire Police have confirmed the arrest of two ambulance workers from the South Western Ambulance Service in connection with the deaths of six adults.
The force said a major investigation has been underway since 2023 following reports that raised concerns about patient treatment and care. Detectives are now focusing on determining whether gross negligence contributed to the fatalities.
A man in his 30s, from West Wiltshire, was first arrested in June 2024 on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter, as well as four counts of ill-treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker. Police revealed that a 59-year-old woman was also arrested earlier this year, in March, on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter.
Both individuals have since been released on bail while inquiries continue. Wiltshire Police confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, with families of the deceased being kept informed.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, from the major crime team, said: “We can confirm a major investigation is under way relating to several adult deaths in and around Wiltshire. Our focus is on supporting the families and loved ones of those who have died.”
He added that detailed inquiries have been carried out since the initial concerns were raised in 2023, stressing that the process requires time to establish the facts and evidence.
The South Western Ambulance Service has confirmed that the two employees involved were “immediately relieved of all duties, including the treatment of patients” once concerns were flagged. One of the individuals is no longer employed by the trust.
A spokesperson for the service said: “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.”
The trust also confirmed that it launched its own internal investigation alongside the police inquiry and has pledged full cooperation with the authorities.
According to the Crown Prosecution Service, gross negligence manslaughter involves a breach of duty of care which results in a serious and obvious risk of death. If proven, the charges could carry serious legal consequences for those arrested.
The South Western Ambulance Service was last inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in 2022. At the time, it received an overall rating of “good,” following improvements in care and leadership. The trust was rated as “outstanding” for patient care, though its emergency and urgent care services were marked as requiring improvement.
As the police investigation continues, the case has raised wider questions about patient safety and accountability within the NHS’s emergency services. Families of the deceased are being supported as they await the outcome of the inquiry and any potential legal proceedings.
Wiltshire Police have urged the public to remain reassured that the case is being treated with the highest level of seriousness and sensitivity.
