Wiltshire Police have arrested a 35-year-old man on suspicion of murder following a fatal shooting at a Traveller site near Gloucestershire. The incident occurred at Calcutt, close to Cricklade, on Sunday, 2 August, at approximately 8:15am.
The victim, identified as 36-year-old Jimmy Ward, died as a result of a gunshot wound. This tragic event prompted the launch of a formal murder investigation.
In addition to the murder suspect, two other men, aged 53 and 29, were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender after being stopped in a vehicle on the A419. Altogether, five people have been taken into custody for questioning regarding the case.
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Police maintain a cordon around the Traveller site, with an increased law enforcement presence while enquiries continue. The investigation is being led by the Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT).
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, the Senior Investigating Officer from MCIT, commented on the progress:
“This is a significant development in our investigation. I can confirm that a man has been arrested on suspicion of Jimmy’s murder and is now in police custody, along with four other people on suspicion of assisting an offender.
Jimmy’s next of kin have been informed of this development and my thoughts continue to be with them. They are being supported by specially trained officers.
A scene and heavy policing presence remain in place at the Traveller site in Calcutt while further enquiries are carried out. I continue to ask that this cordon is respected.
I’d like to thank the local community for their support and patience since Sunday. We understand this incident has caused significant concern, so please consider speaking with officers about any information or concerns you may have.”
The police investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to gather further evidence and information.