An Indianapolis teen suspected of shoplifting died in police custody Saturday after complaining of having trouble breathing.
According to WISH, a loss-prevention officer inside Burlington Coat Factory stopped Terrell Day, 18, around 1 p.m. The teen took out a handgun, pointed it at the officer and then took off running, according to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.
The loss-prevention officer followed the teen and called police. According to the news station, police spotted Day hiding behind a bush at a nearby gas station and took him into custody. According to police reports viewed by the news station, a gun was found near the teen. While in custody, the teen reportedly told officers that he was having trouble breathing.
WISH reports that police called for an ambulance, but an Emergency Medical Service crew decided that police could transport Day to an Arrestee Processing Center. Inside the police wagon, Day's condition worsened and he again told police that he was having trouble breathing. Police called for a second ambulance, but according to Indianapolis police, Day's condition deteriorated quickly and he died.
"Despite the best life-saving efforts by the EMS crew, the suspect died in the back of the ambulance," a police statement viewed by the news station reads.
"The Indianapolis EMS family would like to extend our sincere condolences," Indianapolis EMS Chief Charles Miramonti said. "We have already launched a full internal investigation and, at this time, are confident the highest level of response and care was provided."
Day's cause of death has not been determined, WISH reports.
Read more at WISH.