Police watchdog investigates after man dies in Liverpool police cell

The death of a man in custody is being investigated by a police watchdog.

The 44-year-old was detained after being approached by Merseyside Police officers in the Scotland Road area of Liverpool at 9.45pm on Tuesday.

He was taken to St Anne Street Police Station in the city and was held overnight in a cell.

But at around 5pm on Wednesday, Merseyside Police said staff were made aware he was on the floor and required medical attention.

Paramedics were called and the man was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Following a mandatory referral from the force to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), the watchdog declared an independent investigation and has sent investigators to the custody suite to begin reviewing evidence by obtaining CCTV and body-worn video footage.

Statements are being taken by the officers who first came into contact with the deceased, the IOPC said.

IOPC regional director Catherine Bates said:

"This was a tragic incident in which a man has sadly died and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.

"Merseyside Police referred this matter to us, and as he was in the custody of police at the time he became unwell, it is important there is a thorough and independent investigation.

"We will examine all relevant matters, including the interaction officers had with the man on the street and what happened after he arrived at the custody suite.

"We have made contact with his family to explain our role and will update them as our inquiries progress."

In a statement, Merseyside Police said:

"We are aware that the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the death of a 44-year-old man in police custody in Liverpool on Wednesday 15 March.

"The force’s Professional Standards Department mandatorily referred the matter to the IOPC following the sad news that that the man had passed away and we are fully co-operating with their investigation team.

"His next of kin have been informed and Merseyside Police would like to offer its condolences to the family for their loss."

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