“He was never a trouble-maker or anything like that and the police had never been round there before – I just can’t understand why this has happened”, said Rose. After being tasered he went into cardiac arrest before dieing 90 minutes later.
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A post mortem exam was held on Wednesday, and the cause of death was found to be inconclusive. The circumstances of his death are being investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), but once again raise questions about the duty of care for professional players once their careers end.
In a statement, the watchdog said: “A criminal investigation does not mean that criminal charges will necessarily follow”.
‘The IPCC investigation is at an early stage, and the position will be kept under review as the investigation progresses’.
“I would like to assure people that we have begun a full and thorough investigation into police contact with Dalian Atkinson prior to his death, including the level and type of force used”, said the IPCC’s deputy chair, Rachel Cerfontyne. Officers deployed stun guns after being called to an address in Telford, northwest of Birmingham, involving “the safety of an individual”, West Mercia Police said.
“We will keep Mr Atkinson’s family updated and our thoughts remain with all of those affected by his death”.
The IPCC’s team of investigators has gathered statements from a number of witnesses. Dalian’s memory requires nothing less’.
According to Kenroy, his brother had burst into his father’s home and attacked Ernest. “You should call the police and the police should go in to defuse, to de-escalate the tension”.
Official figures show that Tasers were used 164 times by West Mercia Police last year, down from 197 the previous year, and the 17th highest out of the 43 forces in England and Wales.
The former Aston Villa striker was the Premier League ‘s first superstar – and victor of Match of the Day’s first ever goal of the season.
Atkinson began his career at Ipswich Town, before moving to Sheffield Wednesday in 1989, where he made a name as a pacy and skilful striker despite the club’s relegation.
The striker’s wonder goal against Wimbledon during a 3-2 win in the Premiership in October 1992 was named Match of the Day’s goal of the season.
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Atkinson also scored the opening goal of the 1994 League Cup final as Villa beat Manchester United. He was the first black player for Sociedad, scoring 12 goals in La Liga.
