Mum of two dies in crash while driving herself to hospital after being stabbed at retirement village

After being told by the ambulance service that there would be a long wait, the 47-year-old tried to drive herself to hospital, according to eyewitnesses.

The mum of two managed to drive for around 300 yards before collapsing at the wheel and crashing into a wall on Coity Road.

She was rushed to hospital on Monday afternoon, where, despite the best efforts of medical staff, she later died.

South Wales Police later confirmed she had sustained “puncture wounds” which were not related to the crash.

A statement from 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.”

Gavin Owen, who lives near the scene, told reporters: “We had people coming to interview us, asking us for Ring DoorCam footage.

“Gradually it then expanded; we had standard police officers, then we had men in suits, we had the riot team come, and then we had a SWAT team.”

Another eyewitness, Sue Thomas, added: “The residents are back but people going in have to sign in and out.

“You don’t expect to go to work and not come home. I feel for her family.”

Officers from South Wales Police have arrested a 61-year-old man from Bridgend on suspicion of murder following an investigation around Ger-y-Nant.

The retirement complex is owned by the Valleys to Coast housing association, where Ms Barnfield worked.

A spokesman for Valleys to Coast said: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident in Bridgend on Oct 19 and can confirm that a member of our team was involved.

“Our thoughts are with our colleague’s family, friends and everyone affected by this. We are working closely with South Wales Police and cooperating fully with their ongoing investigation.”

Chief Superintendent Jason Rees of South Wales Police asked anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact the force, quoting reference number 2600342470.

He said: “Our thoughts remain firmly with Eleanor’s family. 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.

“Thank you for your cooperation and understanding during this time and we remind people to please not speculate online about the circumstances.”