Death in Tasmanian prison after reports man 'unresponsive' in cell

A 23-year-old man has died while in custody at the Hobart Reception Centre in Tasmania. Prison staff discovered the man unresponsive in his cell just before 11 a.m. on Sunday, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.

Tasmania Police Assistant Commissioner Doug Oosterloo confirmed that ambulance crews and police attended the scene and attempted resuscitation efforts. Tragically, these attempts were unsuccessful. The deceased man, who was from New Norfolk, had been arrested on Saturday in connection with a wounding incident and had been in custody for only one night.

“

Ambulance Tasmania crews were called, Hobart uniform police attended and Hobart reception prison staff all attempted to revive the man. But tragically those attempts were unsuccessful.

Forensic specialists, detectives from the professional standards unit, and the coroner have all been involved in the initial response. Assistant Commissioner Oosterloo stated that the professional standards investigation will include a thorough review of CCTV footage, records, and interviews with all witnesses. The Tasmania Prison Service has extended its condolences to the man's family and friends, deferring further comment as the matter is now with the coroner.

“

On behalf ot the Tasmania Prison Service, I extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased man at this difficult time.