Tragedy struck the Swindon community on Friday evening when Sarah Forrester, a 55-year-old mental health counsellor, was pronounced dead at an address in the Moredon area.
Police Investigation Underway
Wiltshire Police confirmed they responded to reports of disorder at a mid-terrace property on Baydon Close. Upon arrival, officers discovered Forrester not breathing and she was declared dead at the scene.
The force has launched a murder investigation led by their major crime investigation team. A 13-year-old girl arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on police bail while inquiries continue.
Community and Colleagues Mourn
In a statement released on Sunday, Detective Chief Inspector Guy Elkins expressed condolences: "Our thoughts are with Sarah's friends and family at this awful time." He confirmed that police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the death and urged people not to speculate on the incident.
A heightened police presence remains in the Moredon area as investigations proceed. Local residents have been encouraged to speak with neighbourhood policing teams if they have concerns.
Tribute from Mental Health Charity
Sarah Forrester worked at Swindon-based mental health charity The Kelly Foundation, where colleagues described themselves as "heartbroken" by her sudden loss.
In an emotional statement, the charity remembered Sarah as "completely committed to the charity and devoted to her two young children." They described her as "an incredible person, kind, thoughtful, considerate, caring and funny" who embodied everything the charity represents.
The statement added: "Sarah was pivotal in the work that we do here at the Kelly Foundation and her loss is a hugely traumatic event, not just for us and her colleagues but more especially for her children and family."
The Kelly Foundation was established in memory of BBC Radio Wiltshire presenter Kelly Jobanputra, who took her own life in 2019. The charity has requested privacy for Sarah's family and will not be making further comments at this time.
