The Arkansas State Police have been asked to investigate the death of a 35-year-old man who was taken into custody by Conway Police and later became unresponsive Saturday evening.
According to the Conway Police Department, officers made contact with the man at approximately 5:53 p.m. in the area of Dave Ward Drive and Harkrider Street.
Police said officers observed the man stumbling and walking into the roadway. Based on their observations and his behavior, officers believed he was under the influence of an intoxicant.
The man was taken into custody for public intoxication and an outstanding warrant.
Police said he was then transported to the Faulkner County Detention Center.
After arriving at the detention center, the man was evaluated by medical personnel. Police said medical staff determined he needed additional evaluation at a hospital.
Conway Police officers transported the man to a local emergency department, arriving shortly after 6:30 p.m.
According to the department, officers alerted hospital personnel about concerns regarding the man’s condition when they arrived.
Hospital personnel began emergency medical treatment, but the man was pronounced dead at approximately 7:13 p.m.
The Conway Police Department has requested that the Arkansas State Police conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.
Conway Police are also conducting an administrative review of the incident.
The officer involved in the arrest has been placed on administrative leave in accordance with department procedures while the review is underway.
Police said the cause and manner of death have not been determined. Those findings will be addressed through the appropriate investigative and medical examination processes.
The man’s identity is being withheld pending notification of his next of kin.
Because Arkansas State Police have been asked to conduct the independent investigation, Conway Police said further questions regarding the investigation should be directed to the Arkansas State Police.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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