Tribute paid to 'dearly loved' man found unresponsive in Bicester

The force has made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, because officers had prior contact with Stephen during a stop and search in the town at 1.30am on Tuesday

Stephen Friday
Author: Isabella HudsonPublished 18th Jul 2025

The family of a man who died after being found unresponsive in Bicester have paid tribute to him.

Thames Valley Police responded to a man who was unresponsive in Banbury Road, Bicester, at 4.08am on Tuesday (15/7).

The man was taken to hospital for treatment, but sadly he later died in hospital.

The man has been formally identified as Stephen Friday.

Stephen’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

The death is being investigated as unexplained but not suspicious.

The force has made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), because officers had prior contact with Stephen during a stop and search in the town at 1.30am on Tuesday.

Stephen’s family said: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the sudden passing of our dearly loved son Stephen, during the early hours of Tuesday morning.

“He was also a much loved brother, father, nephew and cousin.

“His loss will be greatly felt by the family and we ask that our privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.”

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