Watchdog investigating police over man's death

A police watchdog is investigating the actions of officers who spoke with a man an hour before his death.

Wiltshire Police attended the man's home following a 999 call over concerns for his welfare. The force was called again about an hour later after another report, when he was spotted walking barefoot along Chippenham High Street on 31 March.

Less than an hour later, his body was recovered from the River Avon. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said the investigation will examine "the nature of the police engagement".

Wiltshire Police chiefs said they "will engage fully with the investigation".

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Body worn cameras, CCTV footage and radio communication will be examined as part of the probe.

Derrick Campbell, IOPC director, said that officers attended the man's address over concerns about his mental health.

Campbell added: "My condolences go to the man's loved ones for their loss. We are in touch with his next of kin to guide them through the process and offer any support we can."

Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith said as part of the force's enquiries, they made a mandatory referral to the IOPC due to previous contact with the man.

"We will engage fully with the IOPC investigation and are continuing to provide our officers with support.

"As an independent investigation by the IOPC is ongoing, it would not be appropriate for us to comment further at this time," Smith added.

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