SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — A man running in and out of traffic while naked in Little Italy died after being taken into police custody Friday.
Witnesses say the man was yelling for help in the area of 600 W. Grape Street at about 11 p.m. When the first San Diego Police officer responded, he was able to place handcuffs on the man.
As the officer led the man out of traffic, though, witnesses told police the man began to struggle and was taken to the ground by the officer. At least two civilians had to help restrain the man until more officers arrived.
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The man was taken to a nearby hospital where he died just before midnight. The man's death was ruled as an in-custody death.
During the struggle, the man suffered a cut to the head. Police are unsure if that contributed to the man's death.
SDPD has not released the man's identity but said they believe drugs or alcohol played a factor in his death.
No officers or civilians were injured during the arrest.
Anyone with information is asked to call SDPD's homicide unit at 619-531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
