Emergency services descended on Freedom Fields Park shortly after 11.15am on Tuesday, 22 July, following reports of concerns for the welfare of a man.
Tragically, a man in his 40s, who was from Plymouth, was sadly found at the scene and pronounced deceased shortly after emergency crews arrived. His next of kin have been informed by Devon and Cornwall Police.
Officers swiftly established a large cordon around the area, restricting public access while investigations were carried out. Plymouth Plus previously reported that forensic officers and detectives were later seen conducting detailed enquiries within the taped off park.
A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police told Plymouth Plus:
"We were called to Freedom Fields Park in Plymouth at 11.15am on Tuesday 22 July following a concern for welfare for a man.
"Emergency services attended and located the man within the park. Sadly, the man in his 40s and from Plymouth, was pronounced deceased at the scene. His next of kin has been informed."
The spokesperson further clarified:
"The death is not being treated as suspicious. A file will be prepared for HM Coroner. Devon and Cornwall Police will be making a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct [IOPC] following the incident, due to prior police contact with the deceased."
The police are legally required to inform the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) whenever someone dies or is seriously injured following contact with the police. This is called a mandatory referral.
Freedom Fields Park remained closed throughout Tuesday afternoon, with police and forensic teams thoroughly examining the scene.
Local residents expressed shock at the incident, describing Freedom Fields Park as a typically peaceful area popular with families and dog walkers.
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