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A Vancouver Police Department patch is seen in Ottawa, on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Spencer Colby
By The Canadian Press

Watchdog investigating after man dies in police custody in Vancouver

Jun 16, 2026 | 8:46 AM

SURREY — British Columbia’s police watchdog is investigating after a man died while in custody in Vancouver.

The Independent Investigations Office says in a statement that the man died Monday morning, a day after being arrested and placed at a Vancouver jail.

The office says jail staff found the man unresponsive and he was declared dead at the scene.

No details of the arrest or further circumstances surrounding the death have been released.

The watchdog agency says it is now looking into police action in the case and any links to the death.

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It is asking witnesses to come forward.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 16, 2026.

The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

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