Police investigation launched after death of woman in Barnstaple

The woman died of a cardiac arrest early on Saturday evening

Author: Rory GannonPublished 5th Nov 2023

Devon and Cornwall Police have launched an investigation after a woman suffered a cardiac arrest and died in Barnstaple on Saturday evening.

First responders were called by the ambulance service to reports of a woman who had gone into a cardiac arrest at Gorwell Road, Barnstaple at 5:15 p.m. on Saturday (November 4th).

Devon and Cornwall Police officers attended the scene, together with paramedics. Despite their best efforts to treat the woman in her 30s, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Now, the force has opened an investigation into her death, as they believe a suspect was involved in the woman's death.

A 32-year-old woman from the surrounding Barnstaple area was arrested on suspicion of murder. She currently remains in police custody.

Detective Inspector Neil Blanchard from Devon and Cornwall Police's Major Crime Investigation Team said: "It is believed that the deceased and the suspect are known to each other, and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.

“We are appealing for witnesses so if you have any information that could help us with our enquiries, please get in touch," he added.

DI Blanchard also urged the public not to speculate any details pertaining to the case on social media, as it could potentially jeopardise the investigation.

In response to the woman's death, police have stepped up police patrols in the area as a way to keep local residents safe.

Anyone with information is being urged to get in contact with Devon and Cornwall Police through their website, or calling 101 and citing reference number 50230292030.

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