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Investigation into death of man who fell ill while in custody of Merseyside Police

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

All IOPC reports
Published
2024-03-15
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Merseyside Police

What was investigated

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the circumstances of a man’s death following his arrest by Merseyside Police. The man fell ill while in police custody and was taken to Whiston Hospital, where he later died.

Key findings

  • The man was arrested on suspicion of driving and drugs offences.
  • He was taken to Belle Vale custody suite where he was detained.
  • CCTV footage showed the man became unwell shortly after 8:30 AM.
  • Officers entered the cell to provide medical care.
  • The IOPC was notified by the force after the man's death.
  • Investigators attended the police post incident procedures and the scene.

Outcome

An independent investigation was initiated by the IOPC to establish the facts surrounding the man's death. Findings will be shared with the man's family, Merseyside Police, and the Coroner.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

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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.