Man's Death After Police Chase Under Investigation

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the death of a man who was found in the River Lea after being chased by police. The incident occurred on September 14 in Stanstead Abbotts, Hertfordshire.

Emergency services were called to the High Street and towpath at approximately 1:20 PM BST. According to Hertfordshire Constabulary, officers pursued the man on foot after identifying him as being wanted in connection with two robberies. The man was no longer visible to officers when he entered the water.

The police force referred itself to the IOPC, which subsequently decided to initiate its own inquiry. An IOPC spokesperson confirmed that officers had attempted to stop the man on the High Street. The man was later discovered in the river and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation is in its early stages, and the man's family will be kept informed of the progress, the IOPC stated. Hertfordshire Constabulary said it is assisting the IOPC with its enquiries and declined to comment further at this time.