Report finds Connecticut man's death accidental, no misconduct

The Connecticut Office of Inspector General has released a report regarding the death of Jacob Evans, a man who died after being taken into police custody. The report concludes that his death was accidental and did not involve any criminal actions or excessive force by the police. On September 15, 2024, Norwich police responded to a call from Illiano’s restaurant about a person needing an ambulance. Officers found Evans in a highly agitated state in the bushes by the Yantic River, wearing only boxer shorts. Firefighters, along with police officers, helped carry him to an ambulance. After being taken to the hospital, Evans was diagnosed with serious health issues, including multiple organ failure and septic shock. Tests revealed the presence of drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine, and cannabis, in his system. A medical examination indicated that dirt and leaves were also found in his airways. Evans died on October 1, 2024. The Chief Medical Examiner ruled that his death was caused by substance use and labeled it an accidental death. The report emphasized that police did not use excessive force, and Evans was not arrested but was taken to the hospital for his safety. The investigation found no evidence linking his death to police actions beyond his drug use.