The police watchdog has launched a probe after a 40-year-old man died in Met Police custody in Hammersmith.
Daniel Cooper was arrested in Shepherd’s Bush on the afternoon of July 12 and was taken into custody at Hammersmith and Fulham police station.
He was charged with an offence and refused bail.
Two days later, he was found unresponsive in his cell at 6.45am. First aid was provided and he was taken to hospital, where he died shortly afterward, said the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The watchdog said it had sent investigators to the custody centre to begin gathering evidence about Mr Cooper’s death.
IOPC director Amanda Rowe said: “Our thoughts are with Daniel Cooper’s family and friends and all those affected by this incident.
“We have met with his family to explain our role and will keep them updated throughout the investigation.
“Whenever a person dies while in police custody, it’s important that an independent investigation is carried out to establish all of the circumstances surrounding this incident, including the actions and decision-making of the relevant police officers and police staff.
“All police officers/staff are currently being treated as witnesses.”
Investigators have taken CCTV from the custody centre and from the street where Mr Cooper was arrested, alongside officers’ body-worn video.
Accounts have also been obtained from the officers involved.
An inquest is due to be opened at 9am on Wednesday at West London Coroner’s Court into Mr Cooper’s death.
The IOPC is separately investigating the death of a 30-year-old man after his arrest by the Met Police in Croydon.
The 30-year-old died in hospital shortly after 11pm on July 15, after being arrested in Croydon town centre at 2.15pm.
The Standard has contacted the Met Police for comment.
