Karnell Kelly, 25, dies after jumping into canal fleeing police at Notting Hill Carnival

Karnell Kelly, 25, died in hospital after entering the Grand Union Canal while being chased by officers. The IOPC has launched a watchdog investigation.

Watchdog launches inquiry after man dies in canal during Notting Hill Carnival police chase

Karnell Kelly, 25, has been named as the man who died after jumping into a canal while fleeing Metropolitan Police officers during Notting Hill Carnival, The Independent reports.

Mr Kelly entered the Grand Union Canal off Kensal Road, west London, at around 3.20pm on Monday while being pursued by officers. He was pronounced dead at a central London hospital at 4.43pm.

According to the Metropolitan Police, officers attempted to stop Mr Kelly near Harrow Road as he approached the carnival wearing a face covering. He fled on foot before entering the canal. Members of the public and officers went into the water to pull him out, and he was taken to hospital by emergency services.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed it has opened a formal investigation and is reviewing body-worn camera footage from officers who chased Mr Kelly down Hormead Road. Investigators are also appealing for information from witnesses and for any video recorded by members of the public, nearby properties, boats or barges.

The IOPC additionally noted that a police officer sustained injuries on 2 September while Met Police divers were searching the canal in connection with the incident.

Amanda Rowe, IOPC director of engagement, said: "Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Karnell Kelly and everyone affected by his death. We need to independently establish the exact circumstances of this incident given that he has died following an interaction with police officers."

The watchdog urged the public not to speculate about the circumstances of Mr Kelly's death.

The incident occurred on one of the busiest days of the annual carnival, which this year marked its 60th anniversary. Hundreds of thousands of revellers attended the event across the weekend, with people in costumes and steel bands moving through the streets of west London.

The Metropolitan Police recorded more than 600 arrests over the course of the weekend — 242 on Sunday and 394 on Monday, totalling 636.

Anyone with information has been asked to contact IOPC investigators at: [email protected]

Source: The Independent