IPCC INVESTIGATES BRIXTON DEATH IN CUSTODY

The Independent Police Complaints Commission has launched an independent investigation following the death of a man in police custody in Brixton last night (Thursday 21 August 2008).

At approximately 7:15pm yesterday, police were called to reports of a man whose behaviour was causing concern to members of the public in the Atkins Road area, SW12.

Officers went to the scene and a 40-year-old man was arrested on the neighbouring Weir Road on suspicion of public order offences and assault on police.  He was taken to Brixton police station.

At approximately 8.15pm, while he was in the holding area of the station, the man became unwell.  A doctor, who was already present at the station, examined the man. An ambulance was called and he was taken to King’s College Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 9.24pm.

The Metropolitan Police Service referred the incident to the Independent Police Complaints Commission. Three IPCC investigators were deployed to the scene and worked throughout the night.

The IPCC has secured CCTV from the custody suite and local area. Investigators have also identified a number of significant witnesses who are currently being interviewed. An IPCC Family Liaison Manager has been appointed and is currently in contact with the man’s family.

A post-mortem will be carried out later today to establish the cause of death.

IPCC investigators are seeking witnesses and will be in the Weir Road area this evening, 24 hours on from the incident, handing out leaflets and speaking to members of the public to appeal for witnesses.

IPCC investigators believe they know the identity of the man, but await formal identification and confirmation that next of kin has been informed.

The man is described as Black and as being bare-chested and wearing white trousers.

The IPCC is appealing for anyone who saw a man fitting this description in the area between 7.15 – 7.45pm, or witnessed the arrest itself, is asked to contact them on 0800 096 9070 or email Brixton@ipcc.gov.uk

-ENDS-

For further information please contact:

Trish Keville, IPCC Regional Press Officer (London and South east) on 0207 166 3130 or out of hours on 07717 851 157.