Wiltshire Police have confirmed that the crash on the B4696 near Royal Wootton Bassett on Tuesday, June 30 is now being treated as a murder investigation.
The crash occurred at around 6.05pm between Brinkworth Road and Lydiard Plain and involved an orange Peugeot 107 travelling northbound and a black Vauxhall Astra travelling southbound.
The driver of the Peugeot was a woman in her 70s, named later as Barbara Mullaney, who was declared dead at the scene.
“Our thoughts remain with her next of kin, who are being supported by specially trained officers,” said Wiltshire Police in a statement.
A passenger in the Vauxhall, a teenage girl, suffered serious injuries in the collision and was taken to hospital, where she remains for treatment.
Following an initial investigation, a 43-year-old man, who was driving the Vauxhall, was arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving and causing death by driving while unfit through drink or drugs.
Wiltshire Police have now confirmed he has further been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.
He was taken to hospital for treatment following the collision and has now been taken to custody for questioning.
On July 1, the Adver reported that the public had raised concerns about the man involved throughout the day, prior to the collision.
Wiltshire Police have made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to previous involvement with the suspect.
The investigation is now being led by their Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT).
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker from MCIT said: “Following initial enquiries, I can confirm this collision is now being treated as a murder investigation and the suspect has been re-arrested on suspicion of murder.
“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.
“I appreciate this update may increase community concern, however please be reassured that there is no risk to the wider public and we are working to piece together the events which led to this tragic incident.
“We remain keen to hear from any witnesses or anyone who might have dash cam footage from the area of the collision at the time.
“In addition, any witnesses who have dash cam footage of a black Vauxhall Astra from Cricklade High Street, Purton High Street, and surrounding areas on Tuesday, June 30th.”
If you can help, contact 101 quoting reference 54260078318 or visit the Public Portal.
Following Ms Mullaney’s death, tributes poured in from those who knew her.
Barbara’s granddaughter Molly thanked the Swindon and Cricklade community for their tributes, and she and her mother Jeanette kept Barbara’s shop, Animal Fayre open in the days after her death.
“I would like to share our gratitude as a family for all the lovely comments, stories, flowers and tributes we have received for my beloved Granny, Barbara,” she said.
Wendy Hindley and Lizzie Rose of Indico, another business on the town’s High Street, were among those to lead the tributes to a “bright and caring” woman.
They said: “It is difficult to believe that such a bright, bubbly, funny, caring and kind person could be taken in the most cruel, mindless circumstances.
“Everyone, pets and their humans alike will miss her desperately, Elvis our pug certainly will.
“She was always so supportive, helpful and thoughtful… thinking of you dear Barbara and your family whom I know you adored.”
A spokesperson for neighbouring business The Wild Fig Deli added: “Absolutely heartbroken for the loss of our dear friend and business neighbour ‘aunty’ Barbara from Cricklade’s beloved pet shop.
“You have been incredibly supportive of me and my business, always a smiley face, there to lend me things and above all love all the dogs and animals in Cricklade.
“Life will not be the same without you.”
A spokesperson for Bailey’s Dog Walking said: “Barbara was one of those special people who made everyone feel welcome. Whether you visited with a dog or another much loved pet, she always had time for a chat, a smile and genuine kindness.
“She has touched the lives of so many people over the years, including countless pet owners and local businesses, and I know I won’t be the only one who wishes I’d popped in just one more time.
“Barbara leaves an enormous hole in the Cricklade community, and she will be missed by so many.”