A police investigation is underway after a 45-year-old man died following an incident in South Norwood, London in the early hours of Sunday morning (February 16).
Metropolitan Police officers were called to a property on High Street, SE25, at 1:27 AM after receiving reports that a child was being assaulted.
Incident Details
Upon arrival, officers gained entry to the property and encountered the man, who was reportedly experiencing a medical emergency, highly agitated, and actively resisting officers.
Police restrained him and immediately called for paramedics.
However, when London Ambulance Service medics arrived, the man’s condition worsened as he was being transported to the ambulance. He was taken to hospital, where he was later pronounced dead despite the efforts of medical professionals.
His next of kin have been informed, and the circumstances surrounding his death are now being investigated.
Mandatory Referral to the IOPC
As per protocol, the Met Police has referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which investigates incidents where someone dies or suffers serious injury following police contact.
The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards is also reviewing the case.
A police spokesperson clarified:
“A referral in these circumstances is not an indication that officers are believed to have done anything wrong. It is a mandatory step when anyone dies or suffers serious injury following contact with the police or while in their custody.”
Official Statement from Met Police
T/Commander Andy Brittain, who is overseeing the response to the incident, said:
Our thoughts are with the family of the man who has died. We will ensure they are fully supported.”
I know the community in South Norwood will want to be reassured that the incident was handled appropriately. The IOPC is conducting an investigation to provide that independent scrutiny.
“We must also acknowledge the impact that incidents like this have on the officers involved. In this case, they were responding to an emergency call involving a child in danger and, on arrival at the scene, were met with a very challenging situation.”
“No officer ever wants to be involved in an incident where someone loses their life, and we will ensure they get all the support they need.”
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
Local residents in South Norwood have expressed concern over the incident, with many awaiting the findings of the IOPC investigation.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Anyone who witnessed the events leading up to the man’s death is encouraged to contact the Metropolitan Police on 101, quoting incident reference 16/02/2025, or to report anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
