Man Dies in Police Custody After Arrest in Reading
A 44-year-old man has died in police custody after being arrested in Reading on suspicion of assault and drug offences. Thames Valley Police have launched a full investigation and referred the case to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).
Arrest and Hospital Visit
Police were called to an incident in Reading at 1.30pm on Saturday, April 1. Officers arrested the man on suspicion of assault and possession with intent to supply a Class A drug. Concerns over his welfare led police to take him to Royal Berkshire Hospital. He was later discharged and returned to the police station that same evening.
Found Unresponsive in Cell
At around 4am on Sunday, April 2, officers found the man unresponsive in his cell. Ambulance crews and police provided emergency medical assistance before rushing him back to hospital. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at 5am.
Investigation Underway
“My thoughts are with the family and friends of the man, and those affected by his death,” said IPCC Associate Commissioner Guido Liguori. “Our investigators met with family members yesterday and will continue to support them throughout the investigation. We are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the man’s death.”
A post-mortem examination was scheduled for Monday, April 3. Detective Chief Superintendent Tim De Meyer confirmed: “We have referred a case to the IPCC following the death of a 44-year-old man in police custody.”
