09/12/2013

Chemical Experts Investigating Unexplained Death

Thames Valley Police have launched an investigation following an unexplained death in Port Meadow, Oxford.

At around 12.25pm on Sunday, police received a call after a member of the public discovered a man's body in a tent. The man was confirmed to be dead at the scene, while a strong odour of chemicals was also present.

As a result, the area was cordoned off and specially trained CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear) officers were sent to the scene. They are ensuring the safety of the site before any further investigations can take place.

In a statement, Thames Valley Police said that while the death is being treated as unexplained, there are no suspicious circumstances at this time.

Superintendent Steve Hockin added: "Early indications are that the chemical involved in the death of the man is hydrogen sulphide, but emergency services are working together to examine the scene and recover the body as safely as possible.

"The cordon remains in place around the scene and several local footpaths remain closed. We are asking the public to avoid the area to allow investigations to progress safely."

(JP/IT)

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