Skip to content

Investigation concludes into the death of Marcel Wochna

Factual summary of a published IOPC investigation, covering the incident, key findings and outcome.

All IOPC reports
Published
2023-09-13
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary

What was investigated

An IOPC investigation examined the actions of Hampshire Constabulary officers who attempted to detain a teenager before he jumped into a river and later drowned. The investigation looked into the police response and whether their actions were appropriate.

Key findings

  • Hampshire Constabulary officers acted appropriately during the incident.
  • Marcel Wochna entered the water voluntarily to evade arrest.
  • Officers did not jump in as Marcel showed no sign of distress.
  • Concerns were raised about the handcuffed friend on the pontoon.
  • Officers were not equipped or trained for water rescue.
  • Officers requested backup and marine assistance promptly.
  • There was no evidence suggesting officers' actions caused Marcel's death.
  • An officer's body worn video was activated too late.

Outcome

The investigation found no misconduct or criminal offences by the officers involved. However, the inquest jury noted insufficient action taken by the officers to rescue Marcel.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk
Last reviewed: 13 July 2026 · Next review due: 13 January 2027

This is a factual summary of a report published by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Individuals are referred to exactly as the source report anonymises them. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the IOPC · Summarised 2026-07-13.