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Witness appeal as IOPC investigates death of man who was detained by Lancashire Constabulary

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

All IOPC reports
Published
2025-07-24
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Lancashire Constabulary

What was investigated

The IOPC is appealing for witnesses to assist with an investigation into the death of a man in police custody following his detention under the Mental Health Act. After showing signs of deterioration at a hospital, he became unresponsive and was declared dead after resuscitation efforts were ceased.

Key findings

  • Man was detained under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act.
  • Officers transported the man to hospital in a police van.
  • The man became unresponsive at the hospital.
  • CPR was performed by medical staff after he was unresponsive.
  • Resuscitation efforts continued for one hour before he was declared deceased.
  • IOPC declared an independent investigation following a referral from the force.
  • Body worn video footage was obtained from officers involved.
  • Further enquiries are ongoing to secure all relevant footage.

Outcome

An independent investigation is underway to establish the circumstances of the man's death. The IOPC is actively seeking witnesses to assist with their enquiries.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

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Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 14 July 2026 · Next review due: 14 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 2026-07-14.