Police watchdog investigates death of man who died ‘after being restrained’ in north London

• Officers called to the scene after man was seen running around street distressed
• The man, whose identity is unknown, was restrained by police using pava spray 
• Death has sparked an investigation by Independent Office for Police Conduct 
• Man found in Waltham Cross, Broxbourne, but died despite efforts to save him

A man who appeared to be ‘in distress’ has died after he was allegedly being sprayed and restrained by police officers.

The death of the man, whose identity has not been confirmed, has sparked the police watchdog to launch an investigation.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) understands that officers tried to restrain the man by using pava spray – an incapacitant spray similar to pepper spray.

Officers from Hertfordshire Police rushed to Eleanor Cross Road in Waltham Cross, Broxbourne, just before 11pm on Friday after hearing reports of a distressed man running around the street.

The police watchdog was told by officers that the man appeared to be having a mental health crisis, prompting an ambulance to be sent out.

The man’s breathing became laboured forcing officers to carry out CPR until paramedics arrived just before midnight.

Officers from Hertfordshire Police rushed to Eleanor Cross Road (pictured) in Waltham Cross, Broxbourne, after hearing reports of a distressed man running around the street

However, the man was pronounced dead at 12.17am, sparking an investigation into what happened.

The IOPC investigators went to the scene themselves as well as the post incident procedures before launching the formal investigation at 6.10am this morning.

IOPC regional director Graham Beesley said: ‘Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends, and all those affected by this tragic incident.

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

‘Our investigation is in its infancy and it’s important that a thorough independent investigation is carried out to ensure we understand the full circumstances.’

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