LYNCHBURG, Va. – UPDATE
A suspect who suffered cardiac arrest after being tasered has died, according to the Lynchburg Police Department.
Recommended Videos
The suspect, 38-year-old Orlando T. Harding, passed away Tuesday while receiving medical care at Lynchburg General Hospital.
Virginia State Police has been requested to investigate, following protocol that requires its involvement when a medical incident during an arrest results in death.
After the state police complete their investigation, the Lynchburg Police Department will conduct an internal review to ensure all policies and procedures were properly followed and to assess whether any updates are needed.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time,” the department said.
The Lynchburg Police Department continues to ask anyone with information about the initial assault or the events leading up to the incident to contact them at 434-847-1602. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Central Virginia Crime Stoppers by calling 888-798-5900 or using the P3 Tips mobile app.
ORIGINAL STORY
A man was arrested and subsequently suffered from cardiac arrest while being taken into custody in Lynchburg on Wednesday, Lynchburg Police Department said.
LPD said they responded to reports of an assault on the 500 block of 5th Street around 12:06 p.m. on Wednesday. Upon arrival, officers found the suspect involved in the incident.
Officers said they attempted to take a 38-year-old man into custody, and a struggle ensued. During the encounter, officers used a taser to apprehend the suspect.
Authorities said they then took the man into custody; however, he soon began suffering from cardiac arrest. Medical aid was given to the man, and he regained a pulse.
LPD said the suspect was transported by the Lynchburg Fire Department to Lynchburg General Hospital, where he currently remains.
This incident is now being investigated by Virginia State Police, in accordance with protocol.
The police department is also asking anyone with information regarding the assault to contact LPD at (434) 847-1602.