Probe into man's death after police custody

Bryan Warrington died at Darent Valley Hospital on 12 September shortly after being transported from police custody

An investigation is under way after a man died in hospital shortly after being taken into police custody.

Bryan Warrington, 36, from Gravesend, became unconscious while being transported to Darent Valley Hospital where he was pronounced dead on 12 September.

He had been arrested just after 13:00 BST following reports of a man running into traffic and damaging a car on Thames Way, Gravesend. He was pronounced dead at around 14:35.

A post-mortem examination has been carried out and the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

Emily Barry, IOPC director, said: "Our thoughts are with Mr Warrington's family, friends and all those affected by his death.

"When someone dies in police custody, it is important that we carry out an independent investigation and examine all the circumstances surrounding their death."

Kent Police referred the incident to the IOPC on the day of Mr Warrington's death.

The watchdog said on the day Mr Warrington died he had been arrested, handcuffed, and placed in leg restraints at the scene before being taken to a custody suite, where his condition deteriorated.

The IOPC said he was then put back in the van and became unresponsive on the way to hospital.

Police body-worn video footage and initial accounts have been obtained from the officers involved, all of whom are currently being treated as witnesses.

Kent Police notified the IOPC on the day of Mr Warrington's death.