Police are still making enquiries into the circumstances of a death in Police custody in Christchurch earlier this week.

Around 1am on Monday 25 August Police attended a Rakaia address following reports of an intoxicated woman, in possession of a knife, hurting herself and threatening harm to others.

Faced with a tense and dangerous situation, and after unsuccessful appeals for the weapon to be put down, Police tasered the woman.

She was arrested and transported to the Christchurch Custody Suite.

The woman was assessed by a doctor in the Police Custody Suite shortly after 4am, before being placed in a cell.

Around 6.50am, the woman was located unresponsive in her cell. Police immediately notified St John and officers also provided medical assistance.

Sadly, attempts to revive her were unsuccessful. Her death has been referred to the Coroner and the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA).

- Superintendent Tony Hill, Canterbury District Commander

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