Story by Will Hallowell
Two people have been arrested after a man in his 30s was allegedly shot dead at a traveller site in Wiltshire.
Police have launched an urgent murder investigation after paramedics reported the shooting in Calcutt, near Cricklade, at around 8.15am on Sunday.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts to treat his injuries. His family have been informed.
The two suspects, a man in his 70s and a woman in her 40s, have been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm and assisting an offender. They have been taken into custody for questioning.
A cordon remains in place at the traveller site, where Wiltshire Police said officers will maintain their presence as investigators probe the alleged murder. The force is now appealing for information.
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: ‘We have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in Calcutt near Cricklade this morning.
‘At around 8.15am, we received a report from the South Western Ambulance Service that a man had been shot at a traveller site in Calcutt.
‘Emergency services made it to the scene, where the victim, aged in his 30s, was sadly declared deceased. His next of kin are aware and our thoughts are with them at this time.
Armed police and paramedics at the traveller site in Calcutt, Wiltshire, where the 30-year-old man was pronounced dead after the alleged shooting
‘Urgent enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the incident.
‘Two people – a man in his 70s and a woman in her 40s – have been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm and assisting an offender and have been taken into custody for questioning.
‘A cordon is in place at the scene, and a significant policing presence will remain in the area while an investigation is carried out.’
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker said: ‘This is an incredibly serious incident, and my thoughts are with the victim’s friends and family at this devastating time.
‘Enquiries are ongoing at the site and in the wider area to establish the circumstances which have led to this incident and locate all the people involved.
‘A cordon is in place at the site and the road leading to it has been closed to allow for enquiries to be conducted and I would ask that this is respected.
‘Those in the area will see an increased policing presence throughout the evening as enquiries continue.
‘We are really keen to hear from anybody who has any information or witnessed anything suspicious this morning.
‘If you can help, please contact us on 101 quoting log 95 of today’s date.’
