WIREDGOV

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is seeking witnesses to an incident that occurred in Bristol in relation to its investigation into Avon and Somerset Constabulary officers contact with a man in the Stapleton Road area of the city on Friday 30 July.

We received a mandatory referral from the force after the man, aged 27, was subsequently taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

We understand at this stage, that officers were responding to a call from a member of the public concerned about the man’s behaviour. Shortly after they had arrived and detained the man, officers called for an ambulance which transported the man to hospital.

IOPC Regional Director David Ford yesterday said:

“Our thoughts remain with the man and his family and friends at this very difficult time. It is vital we independently establish the sequence of events surrounding police contact with the man prior to his hospitalisation and we are asking for the public’s help to do so.

“We are examining the police officers’ interaction with the man from the time they arrived at Stapleton Road until he was treated by medical professionals. We will be considering whether police actions taken at the time, including any restraint used, was necessary, reasonable and proportionate.

“We have received accounts from the police officers involved and obtained CCTV and body worn video footage which we are analysing.

“Our investigators would like to speak with anyone who may have witnessed or filmed police contact with the man outside the Fish Port seafood shop between around 7.30pm and 9.15pm."

Witnesses are asked to call 0300 303 5588 or to email stapleton.road@policeconduct.gov.uk