Investigation launched after death of a man in South Norwood
Officers were called in the early hours of yesterday morning to reports of a child being assaulted
Last updated 17th Feb 2025
An investigation's been launched by the police watchdog following the death of a man in South Norwood.
Met Police Officers entered the property on High Street around 1:27am yesterday morning, after reports a child was being assaulted.
A 45-year-old man was found experiencing 'a medical emergency', and was restrained by officers after resisting arrest and becoming agitated.
Paramedics were called, and the man was taken to hospital, where he later died.
His next of kin are being supported, with a mandatory referral now made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
An IOPC spokesperson said: "We have started an investigation into the contact Met police officers had with a man prior to his death during an incident at a property in South Norwood on Sunday.
"We have been informed that police went to the address after receiving reports of an assault just before 1.30am.
"A man, aged 45, was restrained by officers, who subsequently lost consciousness. Paramedics were called and the man was transported to hospital where he sadly died shortly after 3.30am.
"After being notified by the force we declared an independent investigation and sent investigators to the scene and police post incident procedure to begin gathering evidence. That included obtaining initial statements from the officers involved.
"Our thoughts are with the family of the man who has died and we will be in contact with them to explain our role."
Commander Andy Brittain, who is overseeing the response, has sent his thoughts to the man's family.
“I know the community in South Norwood will want to be reassured that the incident was handled appropriately. The IOPC is conducting an investigation to provide that independent scrutiny.
“We must also acknowledge the impact that incidents like this have on the officers involved. In this case they were responding to an emergency call involving a child in danger and on arrival at the scene, were met with a very challenging situation.
“No officer ever wants to be involved in an incident where someone loses their life and we will ensure they get all the support they need.”