Arkansas State Police investigating in-custody death in Fort Smith

FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Arkansas State Police says it is investigating a man’s death after the department said he was found unresponsive in a Fort Smith Police Department patrol vehicle.

ASP said in a news release that on Sept. 3, FSPD officers responded to calls about a vehicle that crashed near Life.Church on 62nd Street. The driver, identified as Christopher Burns, 41, reportedly fled into the church and caused a disturbance, according to witnesses.

The vehicle had allegedly been reported stolen earlier that day, ASP said in the release.

The department said Burns was restrained by church staff until officers arrived to take him into custody.

Once officers arrived at the Sebastian County Detention Center, Burns was found unresponsive in the vehicle. Life-saving measures were attempted and paramedics were notified.

Burns was taken to a nearby hospital, where he later died.

ASP said its Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is investigating Burns’ death and will present its findings to the Sebastian County prosecutor for review at the conclusion of the investigation.

FSPD Danny Baker said that after ASP completes its investigation, the department will conduct an internal investigation to determine where department procedures and policies were followed.

“Transparency and accountability are crucial to maintaining the trust of our community. Any loss of life is a tragedy and should be heavily scrutinized, especially when it occurs under our watch,” Baker said in a department news release. “I have asked the Arkansas State Police to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, and we will fully cooperate with their efforts.”

This is a developing story. Stay with KNWA/FOX24 for the latest.