Man dies just hours after police arrest as watchdog launches investigation

A man passed away in hospital a few hours after being arrested by the police. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed that an investigation is underway following the death of the man, who was taken into custody in Liverpool.

The deceased, a 41 year old man, has been formally identified as David Brown. He died at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital on Wednesday, August 21, after being taken to St Anne Street police station earlier that day.

Mr Brown was apprehended by officers on Priory Road in Anfield on the morning of August 21 and was taken to a police custody suite before being subsequently released. Later that afternoon, Merseyside Police were informed that he had collapsed at home.

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He was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. The IOPC stated that a post-mortem was conducted on August 22, but the cause of death is yet to be determined.

During their investigation, the police watchdog mentioned that it had been made aware of witnesses who saw Mr Brown being stopped by officers on Priory Road at 11.30am and potential mobile footage of the interaction. A spokesperson expressed their belief that people who may have witnessed Mr Brown's interaction with the officers could assist with their enquiries, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Following a mandatory referral from the force on Thursday, August 22, the IOPC initiated an independent investigation. CCTV footage from the custody suite has been secured by IOPC investigators.

IOPC Regional Director Catherine Bates extended her deepest sympathies, stating: "I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Mr Brown's family and friends and anyone