Shoplifting suspect dies in police custody in Indianapolis

INDIANAPOLIS -- A man accused of stealing from a Burlington Coat Factory store in Indianapolis died while in police custody after an EMT crew determined he didn't need immediate medical attention, according to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.

CBS affiliate WTTV-TV in Indianapolis reports the suspect had complained of breathing difficulties before he died.

Police said a "loss prevention officer" confronted the man, whose name has not yet been released, in the Washington Square Mall at 1 p.m. local time, who then pointed a handgun and ran from the store.

He was later discovered by Indianapolis police behind a nearby gas station, and was taken into custody without incident, police said.

The man then complained of breathing troubles, but the first EMT crew on the scene said he could be taken to jail, according to police. When the jail wagon arrived, the main complained again, and a second ambulance was called.

"Despite the best life-saving efforts by the EMS crew, the suspect died in the back of the ambulance," an IMPD media release states.

Homicide detectives are investigating.

IEMS Chief Charles Miramonti expressed sympathy for the family in a press release, and added: "We have already launched a full internal investigation. and at this time, are confident the highest level of response and care was provided."