A critical investigation has commenced following the death of a man while in police custody in Queensland. The 30-year-old man from Gayndah passed away in hospital two days after being taken there for a medical procedure.
Timeline of a Custody Death
The man was arrested last Thursday by police acting on an outstanding warrant and other criminal charges. Following his arrest, he was transported to the Maryborough Watchhouse, where he remained in custody.
On Monday, he was taken from the watchhouse to the Hervey Bay Hospital for an undisclosed medical procedure. The Queensland Police Service confirmed that the man later became unresponsive while at the hospital.
He was pronounced dead on Wednesday morning. Police have not released any further details regarding his specific medical condition either before or after the procedure.
Independent Oversight of the Investigation
Queensland Police stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the man's death. This matter is being investigated by the Ethical Standards Command on behalf of the State Coroner.
In a move to ensure transparency, the Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) is providing independent oversight of the entire process. This is a standard procedure for deaths that occur in police custody in Queensland.
Police Union Responds to Critical Incident
The Queensland Police Union of Employees posted on social media acknowledging they were aware of the critical incident at Maryborough. The union confirmed their officials were on site in Maryborough to support affected police members.
"Our focus is on the safety and wellbeing of our people," the union's statement read. They added that the involved members were safe and well and promised further updates would be provided when appropriate.
The death highlights the serious protocols surrounding incidents in police custody and the multi-layered investigative response they trigger within Queensland's justice system.
