IPCC investigating police contact prior to the death of Darren Cumberbatch in Nuneaton

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is investigating police contact with Darren Cumberbatch, 32, in Nuneaton who died in hospital on Wednesday 19 July.

Warwickshire Police records, seen by IPCC investigators, indicate police were called to attend a residence in Edward Street, Nuneaton by a person who was concerned about Mr Cumberbatch’s behaviour. They arrived in the early hours of Monday 10 July and the IPCC understands that shortly after their arrival Mr Cumberbatch was taken to a nearby hospital.

IPCC Associate Commissioner Guido Liguori, who is overseeing the investigation, said:

“On Wednesday 19 July, the IPCC was informed by Warwickshire Police that Darren Cumberbatch, whom the police had contact with some days earlier, had died in hospital. We know that he became unwell while the police were on the premises and he was then transported to a local hospital. We are independently investigating the circumstances of Mr Cumberbatch’s death and the contact the police had with him.

“Our investigators have spoken with independent witnesses and we are currently obtaining and reviewing evidence such as CCTV from the premises. We are also looking to secure CCTV from the George Eliot Hospital where Mr Cumberbatch was taken.

“I am aware of speculation, particularly on social media, about how Darren Cumberbatch died and police interaction with him. That speculation is unhelpful. I would like to reassure all of those concerned, that we will thoroughly and independently examine the circumstances surrounding his tragic death in order to establish the facts. We are in contact with Darren Cumberbatch’s family and we have expressed our condolences and explained our role. Our thoughts remain with them and all of those affected by his death at this time.”

A post mortem examination will take place on Tuesday 25 July.

We are keen to speak to any witnesses who may have been in the area of Edward Street between midnight and 01:30am on Monday 10 July, and our investigators will soon be conducting house to house enquiries. We would also be grateful for any witnesses who saw his arrival with police at around 01:30 am at the George Eliot Hospital. Witnesses are asked to contact IPCC investigators on 0800 096 9076 or via email at [email protected]

Darren Cumberbatch’s family has requested their privacy is respected at this time.