Force facing probe after man's death

Independent police investigators are to look into the death of an 87-year-old Shropshire man. The body of Hipolit Konrad Legowski was found in Devon.

Mr Legowski, who was known as Benny, was found dead four days after he was reported missing from his home in Worfe Road, Shifnal.

Now the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is to investigate as he had had contact with police before his death.

Mr Legowski was taken to Barnstaple police station on July 27, three days before his death, after concern was raised for his welfare. He was medically assessed by a doctor before being allowed to go on his way.

On July 28, a member of the public at Umberleigh, Devon, reported he had an elderly man with him who appeared confused. The police closed the call log without attending.

But on July 29, the log was reopened after the circulation of a missing person report by West Mercia Police.

Devon and Cornwall police officers began searching for Mr Legowski and found his body in fields in Hartland, Bideford, on July 30. A post-mortem revealed he died from natural causes.

Rebecca Marsh, IPCC commissioner, said: "The IPCC has been in contact with his family and has explained why we are investigating the circumstances leading to his death.

"The IPCC investigation will also look at the contact the force had with Mr Legowski and will assess whether it was proportionate and within force policy and training."

Mr Legowski's funeral is to be held at St Mary's Church, Shifnal, on Thursday at 11am, followed by interment at St Andrew's.