STATE POLICE INVESTIGATE DEATH OF PRISONER IN HARTFORD POLICE CUSTODY

On 12/21/09 at approximately 6:49 p.m.,  Hartford Police Department was attempting to affect an arrest of a suspect in the area of 195 Sigourney St.in Hartford.  As Hartford Police Detectives approached the suspect he fled on foot with police in pursuit.  After a short foot pursuit by police the suspect was apprehended and taken into custody by Hartford Police. 

While the suspect was in Hartford Police custody, awaiting transportation to police Headquarters, the suspect suddenly became unconscious. EMS was summoned and responded to the scene. The suspect was transported to St Francis Hospital Emergency Room where he was pronounced dead. 

Hartford Police Department secured the scene from where the subject fled to where he was taken into custody.  At the request of the Hartford Police Chief Roberts and the Hartford States Attorney,  the Connecticut State Police Major Crime Squad Detectives have been assigned to conduct the investigation into this in custody death. State Police will be assisted by the Hartford State's Attorney Office and the Forensic Laboratory. 

During the overnight hours Major Crime Troopers processed the scene gathering physical and forensic evidence. In addition Troopers documented the entire scene. Troopers will conduct interviews with all witnesses as this State Police investigation continues.    

The deceased suspect is identified as Robinson, Aaron DOB 07/24/84 of 165 Sargent Street. Hartford CT.

During a visual examination of the deceased Investigators only observed what appeared to be a minor head injury on the deceased. No other injury was observed. Today 12/22/09 the Office of the Chief States Medical Examiner will conduct a post mortem examination of the deceased today to determine the manner and cause of death.

State Police are seeking any witnesses who may have any information regarding this investigation. Any witnesses are asked to contact Connecticut State Police Troop- H Hartford.

The investigation is continuing.

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LT. J. Paul Vance