Ponoka RCMP responded to a call on September 9th to assist EMS with an intoxicated, injured 59-year-old man. He first refused medical attention but was eventually transported to the Red Deer Regional Hospital where he was examined by doctors, including getting a CT scan, and later released.

The following day, September 10th around 10:53 pm, police received a call about an intoxicated male in the area of 46th ave and 55th street in Ponoka. When they arrived, they found that it was the same 59-year-old male from the day before. He was arrested for being drunk in public and placed in a call at the Ponoka RCMP detachment.

Shortly before 6:00 am the next day (Sept. 11th), the man fell in his cell, but was checked out and responsive to staff. About an hour later, the man failed to wake up, and that's when emergency medical care was provided until EMS could arrive and take the man back to the Red Deer Hospital. 

An examination determined the man had at some point sustained significant injuries to his head. He was admitted to the hospital in critical condition and passed away around 9:00 pm. 

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has taken over the investigation and is focusing on what happened that lead to the man's death, including his time in custody, as well as what happened to him during his time not in custody in the days leading to his death. 

Note: The story below was released on Friday, September 11th, 2020, at 5:30 pm, about four hours before the 59-year-old man passed away.