Man dies after being found unresponsive in custody at London police station

The police watchdog is investigating.

The man was discovered at the Charing Cross custody suite
Author: Aileen O'SullivanPublished 13th Oct 2026

An investigation is under way following the death of a 42-year-old man who was found unresponsive in police custody in London.

The man was discovered at the Charing Cross custody suite after becoming unwell during cell checks at 4:27 am on 2nd October.

Police officers began first aid and called the London Ambulance Service. He was taken to hospital and died over a week later on the 11th October.

Investigation launched

He had been arrested for recall to prison earlier on 1st October.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: "as is normal protocol, a risk assessment to identify any medical or other issues was carried out after he arrived in custody.

The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS) was informed and a mandatory referral made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) after the man was found unresponsive."

Both bodies are now aware of the man's death, with the IOPC conducting an independent investigation.

Commander Lou Sargent said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with the man’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“As is standard procedure, the full circumstances surrounding his death will now be independently examined, and we will provide our fullest support to the IOPC investigation.”

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