A York man died after being restrained by a shop worker and members of the public, police said this afternoon (Wednesday)
He was Samuel Diatta, aged 39 and from York.
Police were called to Mappin & Webb on Coney Street at about 4.40pm yesterday after reports of a disturbance at the jewellery store.
Family pay tribute to Sam. Read more from YorkMix here
When they arrived, Mr Diatta “was being restrained by a member of the shop staff and members of the public”.
He began to have medical difficulties and was taken to York Hospital. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the hospital shortly after 6.40pm.
A medical investigation is being conducted into the cause of his death.
Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Steve Menzies of North Yorkshire Police’s Major Investigation Team said: “This is a very tragic incident.
“The three men who were arrested in connection with the report have been interviewed and released on bail pending the results of police and medical investigations.
“Samuel’s family are being supported by specially trained officers and I would ask that their privacy is respected to allow them time to grieve their loss.”
Family supported
Det Insp Menzies added: “I am also aware that there has been some incorrect reporting as to what has happened, which is distressing for the family.
“We ask that people do not speculate or spread incorrect information. However, it is important that we speak to anyone who has witnessed this incident, or who saw Mr Diatta immediately before the incident.”
Anyone who saw what happened and hasn’t yet come forward is asked to contact the police on the numbers below.
North Yorkshire Police have referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
This is standard procedure when someone dies following police attendance at an incident.
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How to help the police
- Call North Yorkshire Police on 101 and ask for the Major Incident Team
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the website
- Quote reference number 405 of 26 July