A MAN from west Wiltshire has been arrested as part of a major police investigation into the deaths of several adults in a healthcare setting.

The 35-year-old was arrested yesterday (June 3) on suspicion of two further counts of wilful neglect by a care worker as part of Operation Willow, an ongoing Wiltshire Police investigation launched following concerns raised in 2023.

The man had already been arrested in September last year on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter and four counts of ill-treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker.

He has remained on conditional bail since then.

Wiltshire Police confirmed he has now been released on conditional bail again while enquiries continue.

A 60-year-old woman, previously arrested in connection with the same investigation on suspicion of one count of gross negligence manslaughter and one count of ill-treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker, also remains on conditional bail.

Both individuals were employed by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) at the time concerns were raised.

Police said they were immediately suspended pending the investigation and are no longer employed by the trust.

Operation Willow is investigating the deaths of several adults within a healthcare setting in the Wiltshire area.

Detectives have said the inquiry remains ongoing and continue to appeal for information.

A spokesperson for SWASFT said: “As soon as the Trust became aware of any concerns, we immediately launched an internal investigation which resulted in a prompt police referral, and we continue to work closely with Wiltshire Police as part of their ongoing investigation.

“Two members of staff have been dismissed from the Trust, following an initial suspension. This meant that they were immediately relieved of all duties, including the treatment of patients.

“We would like to reassure communities that there is no on-going risk to patients. Please continue to call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.

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

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police via its dedicated major incident portal.