Family and friends of a Bristol man who died in HMP Bristol last week are beginning a traditional nine-night wake, as questions surround the circumstances of his death. David McPherson, 44, was found unresponsive in his cell on the morning of Monday, February 26, and paramedics were unable to revive him.
Mr McPherson, known in the community as 'Obeah Man', was on remand on charges of conspiracy to deal drugs. He was the youngest of ten children and had four children of his own, aged nine to 16. A family member described him as a popular character who was loved by many, and said the community is devastated and has many unanswered questions.
Witnesses report that after Mr McPherson was declared dead, his body was left in his cell covered with a sheet, with the door open, until it was collected around 2pm. Other prisoners, including a relative, spent the morning with him lying there. The cell was left untouched with the window open for several days for investigation.
A candlelit vigil is taking place at the Jolly Roger pub in Easton on Wednesday, March 7, with a second event on Saturday, March 10. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will conduct an independent investigation, as is standard for all deaths in custody. Avon and Somerset Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious and has been referred to the coroner.
