The Welsh Ambulance Service has denied that a woman who died after crashing a car into a wall after suffering “stab wounds” was driving because of ambulance wait times.

Eleanor Barnfield, 47, died in hospital after police were called to the crash in Bridgend on Monday, where they found she had “puncture wounds unrelated to the collision”, which the BBC understands were sustained in a stabbing.

A 61-year-old man from Bridgend, who has been arrested on suspicion of murder, remains in custody.

The ambulance service said it was aware of “misleading rumours” circulating online but said medics were called to the crash in Coity Road at about 12:44 BST and a response unit arrived seven minutes later.

In a statement, it said two emergency ambulances then later arrived to provide additional support at 13:07 and 13:13.

It described the rumours on social media as “contradictory” and “factually untrue”.

“We would encourage members of the public not to speculate,” the service said.

It also confirmed that “advanced critical care” was delivered by the emergency medical retrieval and transfer service, which arrived by helicopter, before the patient was driven to hospital.

South Wales Police said it made the arrest on Tuesday after undergoing a “significant” police operation at a retirement housing complex, Ger-y-Nant, near the crash.

Eleanor worked for the housing association Valleys to Coast, which runs the complex that provides accommodation for over-60s and consists of 13 flats.

In a family tribute on Wednesday, Eleanor was described by her family as 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,” the tribute added.

Jo Oak, chief executive of Valleys to Coast, said Eleanor was a “much-valued member” of the team and they were “devastated” by her loss.

Oak added the organisation would “continue to cooperate fully with South Wales Police”.

Police have thanked the patience and support of residents and said communities may notice an “increased police presence” as the investigation continues.