British Columbia's police watchdog is investigating after a man died in Vancouver police cells, the agency confirmed Tuesday.
The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) said it was notified of the death early Tuesday morning. The man, whose identity has not been released, was found unresponsive in his cell at the Vancouver Police Department's headquarters.
Details of the Incident
According to the IIO, the man had been arrested and taken into custody the previous evening. Officers found him in medical distress and immediately began life-saving measures. Paramedics were called, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The IIO has assigned a team of investigators to look into the circumstances surrounding the death. The agency will determine whether police actions or policies played any role.
Ongoing Investigation
“We are in the early stages of this investigation, and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time,” said an IIO spokesperson. The Vancouver Police Department has said it will cooperate fully with the watchdog's inquiry.
This is not the first death in police custody in British Columbia. The IIO has investigated several similar cases in recent years, leading to calls for reforms in how police handle detainees, particularly those with medical or mental health issues.
The IIO urges anyone with information to contact them.
