ComPol Says X-ray, Postmortem Proves Daniel Caal Was Not Killed by Police

26-year-old Daniel Caal died while in police custody late last week. Caal, who had been arrested days earlier for handling stolen goods, was found dead in his cell with visible injuries. As we have reported, a post-mortem examination revealed that he died from lung inflammation and chronic alcoholism. Despite these findings, Caal’s family remains dissatisfied with his treatment while in police custody and plans to take legal action.

Commissioner of Police Chester Williams today told reporters that “the police were responsive to his needs.” Williams explained that a request was made to the National Forensic Service to expedite that postmortem. He said that the family was notified.

“The result of that X-ray revealed that there was no sign of violence on the body,” shared Williams. He added, “The result of the postmortem revealed that he died from acute respiratory distress due to alcoholism. I think cirrhosis of the liver, and likewise, the postmortem did not reveal anything to the effect that Mr. Caal was physically abused by anybody.”

According to the commissioner, Caal had a “long medical history” known to the family. “He had been in and out of the hospital,” Williams said.

“We have viewed the surveillance footage from the station, and that too did not show anything to the effect that police had done him anything wrong. And so at this time we can say with some degree of certainty that Mr. Caal’s death was not caused by the police.”

When asked about the family’s claims that they were not informed about Caal’s condition or injuries, Williams acknowledged their right to pursue legal action. He added, “If they believe their loved one was treated inhumanely or that the police had something to do with his death, they have the right to take the matter to court. Our duty is to defend it, and we have substantial proof, including medical evidence, that the police did not cause his death. It will be up to the court to decide.”