A 52-year-old man has died in hospital after suffering a medical episode during an arrest by New South Wales police in a Sydney suburb, an incident that is now under independent review.
Police Respond to Domestic Violence Report
Officers were called to a property in Homebush at approximately 8.30am on Monday morning. The call-out was in response to reports of an alleged domestic or family violence-related incident, according to an official police statement.
Pepper Spray Deployed During Arrest Attempt
During the attempt to detain the man, police confirmed that officers deployed OC spray, commonly known as pepper spray. Following its use, the 52-year-old suffered a serious medical episode at the scene.
Paramedics treated the man extensively before transporting him to a nearby hospital in what was described as a critical condition. Despite medical efforts, he passed away on Monday evening.
Independent Review and Coronial Investigation
The incident has been declared a critical incident, triggering a thorough investigation. This investigation will be subject to an independent review, a standard procedure in such cases involving police actions.
A report detailing the circumstances surrounding the man's death is now being prepared for the Coroner, who will determine the official cause of death and examine the events leading up to it.
The case has drawn attention to police procedures, particularly the use of force and the response to medical emergencies during arrests. The community awaits further details as the independent inquiry progresses.