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Investigation under way into death of man after arrest near St Austell

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

All IOPC reports
Published
2023-07-21
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Devon & Cornwall Police

What was investigated

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the detention of a man by Devon & Cornwall Police prior to his death in hospital on Thursday 13 July. The man was arrested after a report of a car being driven erratically and became unwell during transport to the police station.

Key findings

  • The man was arrested near St Austell at around 10.30 am.
  • He was handcuffed and transported by police van to Newquay police station.
  • The man became unwell during the journey.
  • First aid was administered by officers upon arrival at the custody unit.
  • He was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead at around 12.35 pm.
  • A post mortem was inconclusive and further tests are ongoing.
  • Investigators gathered accounts from police officers involved and reviewed body worn video footage.
  • The Coroner has been informed.

Outcome

The investigation is ongoing to independently examine the events leading to the man's death.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

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Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
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.