Santurtzi officials have opened an investigation into the death of 30-year-old Ander S.T., who died two days after being subdued by local police using a Taser. Security Councilor Imanol Urrutxua confirmed the incident took place Monday afternoon and has been referred to the Basque Police Control Commission for independent review.
What triggered the police intervention?
According to Councilor Urrutxua, the incident began when the young man, who reportedly suffered from psychological issues, rang the bell at the police station and fled. An officer observed the man in José Miguel de Barandiarán street, where he allegedly took a cane from an elderly person and knocked them down.
Officers pursued the individual on foot to Calle Cervantes, where they used a Taser to subdue him. The Esan union reported that the man assaulted three agents with the cane, leaving the officers on medical leave due to their injuries. Some sources also claim the man managed to steal a police baton and use it to attack the officers.
Why are there conflicting accounts of the response?
While the official report of the police action was filed at 16:06, local merchants have raised questions regarding the response time of emergency services. One local business owner reported that the man was still lying on the ground at 17:00, suggesting an ambulance took over an hour to arrive.
The Councilor has not released specific data regarding when the intervention began, when the ambulance was called, or how long the man convulsed on the street before being moved to Cruces hospital. These details remain part of the ongoing investigation.
What is the status of the investigation?
The Santurtzi City Council is currently collecting documentation and reviewing public security camera footage to establish a complete timeline. The case is also being analyzed by the Basque Police Control Commission, an independent body tasked with reviewing officer conduct.
The investigation aims to clarify the circumstances leading to the man’s death. Councilor Urrutxua stated that the council is committed to ensuring the process is conducted with all legal guarantees.
How is the family responding?
Family sources claim that the police suggested the young man died from heatstroke, but they have expressed an intention to take legal action. Friends of the deceased noted that he frequently sought help from the police during psychotic episodes.
A protest has been organized by those close to the deceased for Saturday at 12:30 in front of the Santurtzi City Hall to denounce the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What caused the death of Ander S.T.? He died two days after being subdued by local police with a Taser; family sources noted a version from the police suggesting heatstroke.
- Which agencies are investigating the incident? The Santurtzi City Council is conducting its own inquiry, and the case has been sent to the Basque Police Control Commission.
- What evidence is currently available? Authorities are reviewing documentation and public security camera footage, though Taser body cameras only recorded from the moment of activation.
What role should independent oversight play in reviewing police use of electronic control devices?
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