Police re-appeal for witnesses following critical incident in Maitland

Police are re-appealing for witnesses to come forward, following a critical incident investigation into the death of a woman while in custody at Maitland Police Station last week, NSW Police say.

About 12.45am (19 July 2016), police located and detained a 36-year-old woman who was walking along Wollumbi Road, Cessnock, and appeared intoxicated.

Police had concerns for her welfare and conveyed her to Maitland Police Station.

About 6am the woman was found deceased.

A Critical Incident Team from Newcastle is currently investigating all circumstances surrounding the incident, with that investigation subject to independent review.

Investigators are hoping to speak with an anonymous male person who called police, and the occupants of a blue Commodore, who witnessed the woman’s actions prior to the arrival of police.

All information will be provided to the Coroner who will determine the cause of death and make any findings about the events leading to the woman’s death.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Detective Inspector Peter R Mahon at Newcastle Police Station on 02 49290630 or Crime Stopers.

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