A 43-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder following a two-car collision on the B4696 near Royal Wootton Bassett in Wiltshire, which resulted in the death of a woman and serious injuries to a teenage girl. The incident, which occurred on the evening of June 30, is now being treated as murder by Wiltshire Police.
Victim Identified as Pet Shop Owner
The deceased has been named locally as Barbara Mullaney, a woman in her 70s who reportedly ran a pet shop in Cricklade. She was driving an orange Peugeot 107 travelling northbound when it collided with a black Vauxhall Astra heading southbound. Ms Mullaney was declared dead at the scene.
A passenger in the Vauxhall, a teenage girl, suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital, where she remains. The driver of the Vauxhall, a 43-year-old man, was also taken to hospital for treatment and has since been taken into custody for questioning.
Arrest and Investigation
Wiltshire Police initially arrested the man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, but he has now been re-arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, leading the investigation, said: "My thoughts continue to be with the victim’s family and all that knew her. Her next of kin have been informed of this latest development in the investigation and they continue to be supported by specially trained officers."
DCI Walker added: "I appreciate this update may increase community concern, however, please be reassured there is no risk to the wider public and we are working to piece together the events which led to this tragic incident."
Community Reaction
Wendy Hindley and Lizzie Rose, who run a business in Cricklade, described Ms Mullaney as a "bright, bubbly, funny, caring and kind person." They told the Swindon Advertiser: "It is difficult to believe that such a bright, bubbly, funny, caring and kind person could be taken in the most cruel, mindless circumstances."
Appeal for Witnesses
Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dash cam footage from the area at the time of the collision. DCI Walker urged anyone with footage dated June 30 of a black Vauxhall Astra from Cricklade High Street, Purton High Street, and surrounding areas to come forward.
