The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an urgent investigation after a man died in custody at Gablecross Police Station in Swindon.
The tragic incident took place early on Sunday morning, prompting an immediate emergency response.
Around 7:30 a.m., Wiltshire Air Ambulance and ambulance teams were called to assist a man in his 30s who was experiencing a medical emergency while detained at the station.
Despite the desperate efforts of paramedics and emergency services, the man sadly passed away at the police station.
Following the incident, the Gablecross custody suite was promptly closed to facilitate the investigation. All detainees were transferred to Melksham custody, which had recently reopened after refurbishment.
Wiltshire Police have suspended non-essential arrests and cancelled voluntary attendance interviews to concentrate resources on the ongoing inquiry.
Superintendent Steve Cox of Wiltshire Police confirmed the death and extended condolences to the family of the deceased. He stated that a mandatory referral to the IOPC has been made but declined to provide further details due to the active investigation.
The community has been urged to respect the privacy of those affected and to cooperate fully with authorities as the investigation continues.
For updates or further information, members of the public are advised to contact the IOPC.
This is a sombre moment for Swindon, and our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Originally published by UKNIP.