The family of an ex-company director who was allegedly murdered at her house in Somerset have said they are ‘utterly heartbroken’.
Sarah Ashwell (47) has been identified officially as the victim of an ‘unusual death’ following her Sunday night body discovery at home in Wells.
According to Avon and Somerset Police, three suspects have been detained and remain under arrest as part of the murder investigation.
The force said it has also made a mandatory formal referral to the IOPC (Independent Office for Police Conduct) due to recent police contact with Sarah.
Sarah’s loved ones have paid tribute since then to their mother. They said that’so many people had such an affection for her.
Sarah Ashwell’s family (pictured below), 47, was murdered in her Somerset home. They are said to be ‘utterly heartbroken.
Pictured Monday morning outside the Wells home of forensic officers. Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed that three suspects were taken into custody in connection with the murder investigation.
The couple released the following statement: “We are devastated by what happened to Sarah. Sarah was someone we loved deeply.”
“Nothing will prepare you for this terrible news, and we are deeply heartbroken. Sarah had much more of her life left.
“It is difficult for us to believe that this has happened to her, and that it has been taken from us.
“We have been overwhelmed by all the kind, loving messages of support that our loved ones and friends posted to social media over the past few days.
“It is comforting to know that she was loved so much and that there were many who cared about her.
Online, mourners have paid respects to Sarah as well. One woman wrote: “Can’t get my heads around this…this world is just horrible.”
“My thoughts, love and prayers are with your boys now and forever.. heartbreaking news.
Another said: “RIP Sarah. Always remember the laughs we shared at work. I’m in the arms with the angels now, my friend. Till then, our hearts will be forever connected.”
Sarah’s family paid tribute to her ‘well loved’ mother, (pictured), adding that’so many people had such love for her’
Sarah was also remembered by mourners online. They wrote: “RIP Sarah Always remember our laughs in work. I’m in the arms with the angels now, my friend. Till we meet again.”
Another added, “Can’t believe the things I’m hearing. Shocked and saddened.” It will always be in my heart to remember fond memories from my childhood.
It’s a time of peace, rest easy angel.
Gary Haskins is Detective Superintendent and heads the Major Crime Investigation Team. He leads the investigation into Sarah’s death.
He explained that Sarah was deeply loved, as she is a mother, friend and daughter.
“Our family liaison officer are there to support the parents of her two children. Our thoughts and best wishes are with all members. In their grief, we ask for privacy and consideration.
The scene was occupied by police earlier in the week. The investigation into Sarah’s murder is being led by Detective Superintendent Gary Haskins (Head of the Major Crime Investigation Team).
On Monday, a police perimeter was established on the streets. Mr Haskins said: ‘We’ve already made three arrests and are conducting a thorough, detailed forensic examination of Sarah’s home’
The street was closed by police following the death. Avon and Somerset Police also stated it made a mandatory formal referral (IOPC) due to Sarah’s recent contact.
“This investigation is complex and fast moving. We are exploring many avenues of inquiry. Thank you to all who have contacted us for information and shared CCTV footage. We also enjoyed speaking to officers about house-to-house enquiries.
“We made three arrests already and we are now conducting a detailed, comprehensive forensic inspection of Sarah’s home. Sarah’s family deserves justice and the team is committed to finding them answers.
We want to speak with you about your Sunday visit to South Street. Do you have CCTV footage, phone video, or dashcams that captured South Street or information that might be helpful in determining Sarah’s final hours?
Anybody requiring information about this matter should call 101, quoting reference 5221261875.