Investigation following death of man in Lewisham

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has begun an investigation following the death of man in south east London yesterday (Friday 9 March).

Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officers were called to a residential address on Polsted Road, Lewisham on Friday afternoon. Our investigators have reviewed body-worn video footage that shows the man in an agitated state. Officers have told us the man appeared to be having a mental health crisis and so they called the London Ambulance Service. The man was restrained at the location. He became unwell while paramedics were at the scene and was transferred to Lewisham Hospital by ambulance where he sadly died.

We were informed of the incident by the MPS and subsequently declared an independent investigation.

We sent our investigators to the scene, to a local police station where we obtained initial accounts from officers and to the hospital. We have also met the man’s family to explain our role.

IOPC Regional Director Jonathan Green said:

“Our investigators have begun reviewing body-worn video footage obtained from all officers who attended the incident and are undertaking door-to-door enquiries in the area.

“My thoughts are with the man’s family and friends and to all those affected at this time and we will look to issue more information when appropriate.”