January 10, 2019 10.50 am This story is over 61 months old

Man dies after supermarket shoplifting arrest

He was taken to hospital by air ambulance

A man who was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at a supermarket in Spalding has died, sparking an investigation.

The emergency services, as well as an air ambulance, were called to an incident at the Holland Market Sainsbury’s store in Spalding at around 1.45pm on Tuesday, January 8.

Police were called due to a reported shoplifting incident, but they said the arrested man became ill.

He was given first aid by officers and staff before being taken to Lincoln County Hospital by air ambulance, but he later died in hospital.

The matter has also been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) who are conducting an independent investigation.

A spokesperson for Lincolnshire Police said: “Police were called to the Sainsbury’s store in Spalding around 1.45pm on Tuesday, January 8, upon a report of a man who had been detained on suspicion of theft from the store.

“Upon police arrival, the male was arrested, however it became apparent that the male was unwell.

“Officers and staff gave first aid to the man who was taken by air ambulance to Lincoln County Hospital. Unfortunately the man subsequently died at hospital.

“An investigation has been commenced into the circumstances of the death, and enquiries are continuing.

“Additionally the matter has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (I.O.P.C) who are conducting an independent investigation.”