A mother who died earlier this week following a car crash in South Wales was a housing association worker, police have confirmed, as they said some of her injuries were not sustained in the collision.
The family of Eleanor Barnfield have paid an emotional tribute to the 47-year-old from Bridgend, describing her as “the most loving bravest person in the world”, after a man was arrested on suspicion of her murder.
Ms Barnfield died in hospital after her car crashed into a wall on Coity Road in the town on Monday afternoon.
South Wales Police stated she had sustained “puncture wounds” which were not related to the crash.
They have now arrested a 61-year-old man, also from Bridgend, on suspicion of murder following a probe around Ger-y-Nant, which is owned by the Valleys to Coast housing association, where Ms Barnfield worked.
In a tribute issued through police, Ms Barnfield’s family said: “Mum was the kindest, most loving bravest person in the world.
“She meant everything to us and will be forever loved and missed deeply by her devoted family and friends. She was our rock.”
Chief Superintendent Jason Rees, of South Wales Police, asked anyone who had witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact the force quoting reference number 2600342470.
He urged people not to speculate online about the circumstances of Ms Barnfield’s death.
“Our thoughts remain firmly with Eleanor’s family,” Mr Rees said. “I want to assure the community that teams of detectives and specialist staff are investigating.
“We appreciate the patience and support of residents, especially those displaced following the incident.
“Local communities may notice an increased police presence as our investigation continues.”
Valleys to Coast housing association chief executive Jo Oak said: “We are devastated by the tragic death of our colleague, Eleanor Barnfield.
“Eleanor was a much-valued member of the Valleys to Coast team, and her loss has been deeply felt by everyone who knew and worked alongside her.
“She made an important contribution to our organisation and to the communities we serve, and she will be remembered with great warmth and affection by her colleagues.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Eleanor’s family and friends at this unimaginably difficult time.
“We are doing everything we can to support those affected by her loss.
“We continue to cooperate fully with South Wales Police and, out of respect for Eleanor’s family and the ongoing investigation, we will not be commenting further on the circumstances of her death at this time.”
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