An investigation has been launched after a 32-year-old who was arrested by police on Saturday night died today.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) was called in following the death and is calling on any witnesses to come forward to shed light on the incident.

Jennifer Izekor, the IPCC Commissioner, promised a “robust and thorough” investigation.

Sussex Police officers were called to an incident in Ryecroft, Haywards Heath, on Saturday night (July 26) and approached a man leaving the area.

Officers restrained the 32-year-old man and placed him in a police van where he is said to have become unwell.

Due to his condition he was taken out the van in South Road, Haywards Heath at around 00:10 and CPR was performed.

He was then taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital where he died today.

A post-mortem has yet to be conducted and the Coroner has been notified.

Sussex Police called in the IPCC – as they are required to do so – and investigators were sent to Haywards Heath.

They have examined the scene and taken statements from the officers involved. They have also made house-to-house enquiries to speak to witnesses to shed light on the incident.

Ms Izekor said: “Following this incident a 32-year-old man tragically lost his life and my thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. The IPCC will carry out a robust and thorough investigation into the circumstances and nature of his contact with the police, the events leading up to his becoming unwell and his hospitalisation.

“I would urge anyone with any information about this incident or anyone who witnessed any part of the police contact with the man to come forward to the IPCC as soon as possible.”

Any witnesses should contact the IPCC witness appeal number on 0800 015 4877 or email: haywardsheath@ipcc.gsi.gov.uk.

They are also hoping to look at any available CCTV and are calling on businesses to get in touch.

The IPCC has met the man’s family but have not yet revealed his identity.

Did you know the man. Send your tributes to ben.james@theargus.co.uk.