Investigation launched after man dies in custody at Sheffield police station

Matthew Terrill, 46, died while at Shepcote Lane police station at Tinsley on Wednesday, April 22.

A mandatory referral was made by South Yorkshire Police to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) following the death.

Spokespeople for the IOPC said on Tuesday that the investigation remained "at an early stage" while information was still being gathered on how Mr Terrill died.

His family meanwhile have since been informed of the death, as well as the coroner.

A post-mortem examination has been carried out and the IOPC is awaiting the results.

A spokeswoman for the police force said: "South Yorkshire Police can confirm a 46-year-old man has died after becoming unresponsive in a cell at Shepcote Lane Custody Suite on the afternoon of Wednesday 22 April.

"The man had been arrested just after 11.30am that day before being taken into custody.

"His next of kin has been informed.

"As with all deaths in police custody, a referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct."

IOPC Regional Director Miranda Biddle said: “My thoughts remain with Mr Terrill's family and all those affected by this tragic loss of life.

“When someone dies following contact with the police, the force involved must refer the matter to us to assess whether we should investigate what has happened.

“Each death is a tragedy. Our role is to seek answers about what happened and share any learning highlighted by our investigations.”