Fourth man arrested in connection with Wells murder

Avon and Somerset Police have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct

Sarah Ashwell was found dead on Sunday 7 November. She was 47
Author: James DiamondPublished 10th Nov 2021
Last updated 10th Nov 2021

A fourth man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the death of Sarah Ashwell in Wells.

Her body was found after officers were called to an address in South Street on Sunday afternoon (7 November).

Before today three men had already been arrested for the same offence, two of whom remain in custody at the time of writing and one of whom has been released under investigation.

The murder investigation is being led by the Major Crime Investigation Team, while neighbourhood officers continue to maintain a uniformed presence in the area.

Earlier, Detective Superintendent Gary Haskins, who is heading the enquiry, described the investigation as “fast-moving and complex” and asked anyone who was in South Street on Sunday, has dashcam, CCTV or phone footage of the area, or any other information to come forward.

Sarah's family say they are "utterly heartbroken" by her death but touched by tributes to her shared online.

Detective Superintendent Gary Haskins, who heads the Major Crime Investigation Team, is leading the enquiry into Sarah’s death. He said: “It’s clear from our enquiries so far that Sarah was much loved as a daughter, mother and friend.

"Our family liaison officers are supporting her parents and two sons and the thoughts of all the team are with them.

"We ask that they be given privacy and consideration in their loss."

Avon and Somerset Police have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct because of recent contact they had had with Sarah.

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