Man's death investigated by police watchdog

Greater Manchester Police says it is fully cooperating with the investigation

The death of a man who fell ill while he was being taken to a police station is to be investigated by the police watchdog.

Graham Beaumont, 41, was arrested by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) on 31 October and was being taken to a custody suite in Swinton - but lost consciousness while in the police van.

He was taken instead to Salford Royal Hospital, where he died later that day.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said it would investigate and examine all the circumstances surrounding Mr Beaumont's death.

IOPC Director Amanda Rowe said: "Our thoughts are with Mr Beaumont's family, loved ones and all those affected.

GMP said it was "cooperating fully" with the IOPC.

Ms Rowe added: "We have been in touch with Mr Beaumont's family and will ensure they are kept informed as our investigation progresses.

"Our findings will be shared with the coroner in due course."

The IOPC said Mr Beaumont was arrested shortly after 20:00 GMT after the vehicle he was travelling in was stopped by officers.

'Emergency aid'

On the way to Swinton custody suite he was taken ill, and officers took him to hospital.

Despite being given emergency first aid, he died just before 9pm, the IOPC said.

The watchdog said it had taken initial accounts from officers and secured body worn video footage.

A spokesperson for GMP said: "Our thoughts remain with his family at this devastating time.

"GMP's Professional Standards Directorate, as is routine in such circumstances, have referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct who will undertake an independent investigation into his death.

"We are cooperating fully with the ongoing IOPC investigation in relation to the death of a man who sadly passed away whilst in police custody in Salford."