The Duncan/North Cowichan RCMP are being investigated after a 37-year-old Duncan man died following a three-hour detainment in police cells Apr. 21.

The police picked up the intoxicated man for causing a public disturbance and planned on releasing him when he became sober, but Cpl. Greg Pask explained that at around 2 p.m. Saturday, the man started showing signs of medical distress.

“I believe… he had shallow breathing and was no longer being responsive to the guard’s directions.”

The man was taken to the Cowichan District Hospital and then transferred to the Royal Jubilee in Victoria. He passed away Sunday afternoon.

Oak Bay police will now look into the situation, including any members at the Duncan/North Cowichan detachment on duty during the incident on Saturday.

“All the investigators that were involved are cooperative with the investigators and there’s also video in our cells at all times as well,” Pask commented.

The police said the cause of death has not been determined and the Coroner's office is also investigating.

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