A man who died following an alleged shooting at a travellers site near Cricklade, Wiltshire, has been named locally as Jimmy Ward, a much-loved husband and father in his 30s.
Mr Ward was pronounced dead at the scene on Sunday morning, 2 August. The residential street where the incident occurred remains cordoned off, with a white forensic tent still visible at the location.
Police have arrested a man in his 70s and a woman in her 40s on suspicion of possessing a firearm and assisting an offender. Both remain in custody as investigations continue.
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Tributes for Mr Ward have poured in from the local community. Many have expressed their condolences, highlighting the profound impact of the loss.
“RIP to my daughter-in-law‘s dad Jimmy Ward. Please everyone pray for all the family, my heart goes out to them all,” one mourner wrote.
Others described him as a gentleman and extended their sympathies to his wife and children.
Wiltshire Police have confirmed that no murder arrests have been made at this stage. Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker of the Major Crime Investigation Team stated, “This is an incredibly serious incident, and my thoughts are with the victim’s friends and family at this devastating time.”
He added that enquiries are ongoing both at the site and in the surrounding area to determine the circumstances leading to the incident and to identify all those involved.
The public has been urged to respect the cordon and road closures in place while the investigation is underway. Officers are appealing for anyone who witnessed the shooting or saw anything suspicious in the area on Sunday morning to come forward.
Information can be provided to the police by calling 101 and quoting log 95 of 2 August, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.