Appeal for witnesses following unexplained death of man in Exeter
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a man's death on Sidwell Street
Last updated 29th Jan 2026
Detectives are asking for information as they investigate the death of a man in Exeter city centre earlier this month.
Emergency services responded to Sidwell Street around 3pm on Saturday 10th January following concerns for the welfare of a 41-year-old man.
The man was discovered in a stairwell located between Efes Grill and Taco Bell but despite the efforts of paramedics and members of the public, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed his next-of-kin have been informed and the cause of death is currently unexplained despite initially being treated as non-suspicious.
A man in his 30s from Exeter was arrested in connection with the death but has since been released on police bail as enquiries continue.
Witness appeal and evidence
Detective Inspector Michelle Westlake, leading the investigation, said that the emergency service response resulted in significant activity in the area at the time.
"Enquiries are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding this tragic death, the cause of which is currently unascertained," DI Westlake said.
"We are appealing for witnesses who live near, or were present in the surrounding areas of the stairwell, or roads leading to and from it, between approximately 1.15pm and 3.15pm on Saturday 10 January.
"If you saw or heard anything which could assist our investigation, please get in touch.
"We are also seeking any CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage that could be relevant to our enquiries."
Anyone with information should contact police online or by calling 101, quoting reference 50260007677.
Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously via crimestoppers-uk.org or freephone 0800 555 111.