Update: Police incident at Clare

Just before 12.30pm on Sunday 7 June police were called to Opie Street in Clare after reports of a man armed with a metal pole creating a disturbance.

When police arrived, the man was damaging property with the metal pole and two officers and several civilians were subsequently threatened by the man.

Police attempted to disarm the man and subsequently deployed an ECD.

During the arrest the 44-year-old man, became unresponsive. Police rendered first aid until SA Ambulance attended and provided treatment however he passed away at the scene.

The body worn video of the incident has revealed that on the face of it the actions of the police officers involved was appropriate in the circumstances.

“I am satisfied that a preliminary view of the body worn video shows that the officers acted appropriately and within general orders,’’ Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens said.

“Having viewed the body worn video, it is clear the responding officers were confronted by an agitated man behaving in a threatening and aggressive manner. This person was also threatening an elderly man and woman."

“The body worn video highlights the professionalism and courage of the police and their efforts to ensure the safety of all present, including the male causing the disturbance."

“I would also like to acknowledge the assistance of a member of the public provided to the police in their efforts to restrain the man.’’

Major Crime and Ethical and Professional Standards detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The man’s death is the subject of a Police Commissioner's Inquiry and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

The Commissioner’s Inquiry into this incident will be undertaken by a senior police officer.

SAPOL has not referred this incident to either the Office for Public Integrity (OPI) or the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption (ICAC).

The OPI oversights matters relating to the Police Complaints and Discipline Act 2016, however neither the OPI or the ICAC oversee Commissioner’s Inquiries.