IOPC investigates death of man after police incident in Salford

An independent investigation has begun after a 28 year old man died following an incident involving Greater Manchester Police in Salford.

Officers had been called to reports of a man experiencing a mental health crisis at an address on Duchy Road.

Greater Manchester Police said officers responded to a 999 call at about 7.40pm on Friday 24 July after receiving reports that a man was experiencing a potential mental health episode, had become violent and that family members needed assistance to restrain him.

According to the force, officers arrived at the address at 7.49pm and spent around 10 minutes at the scene attempting to de escalate the situation alongside the man's family.

Police said the 28 year old man was on the floor, appeared distressed and agitated and was considered to present a risk to himself.

Officers detained him in handcuffs at 7.52pm while requesting an ambulance and continued trying to calm the situation, GMP said.

The force said officers became concerned about the man's breathing at 7.59pm after finding him unresponsive, although he was still breathing. First aid was provided before officers began CPR at 8pm.

Paramedics arrived at 8.07pm and continued treatment before the man was taken to hospital. He died in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Greater Manchester Police said a Home Office post mortem examination was inconclusive and that further forensic testing, including toxicology, is being carried out to establish the cause of death.

As there was police contact before the man's death, the incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which is carrying out an independent investigation.

GMP said its Professional Standards Directorate has begun initial enquiries, including reviewing body worn video and other available footage.

Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker said, "This is a really distressing time for all concerned, particularly the family of the man who has sadly passed away after this incident. We are doing what we can to establish what happened to answer any questions they will have.

"Our officers attended to try to help what was a complex and challenging circumstance. We are ensuring they are getting the support they need at this time.

"It is vital that this a proper investigation, independent of the police, is able to be carried out. We are fully assisting with the IOPC's enquiries and are committed to accountability to help ensure the facts are established."