The family of Ricky Swindells are devastated by his death following contact with Greater Manchester Police in Salford on 24 July 2026. Ricky was 28 years old. He was a much-loved son, brother, uncle and friend, and his loss has left his family heartbroken.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct is now investigating the circumstances of Ricky’s death and an inquest will follow in due course. They support both processes and expect them to be thorough, independent and transparent.

At this stage, the family does not seek to pre-judge the outcome. The medical cause of Ricky’s death has not yet been established, and a number of serious questions remain unanswered.

Before police attended, emergency services had reportedly been informed that Ricky was a vulnerable, autistic man who was in significant distress. The family requested assistance as Ricky was experiencing a mental health crisis. They expected support, care and appropriate safeguarding for Ricky.

However, when officers arrived, they handcuffed Ricky and restrained him on the ground until he became unresponsive, despite cries and pleas from family members.

The family expect the IOPC to carry out a thorough investigation into Ricky’s death and the following issues;

  • What information was available to officers regarding Ricky’s autism, mental health and vulnerabilities before and during their attendance.
  • The decisions made about restraint, including whether restraint was necessary, proportionate and safely managed.
  • Whether appropriate steps were taken to protect Ricky’s welfare while he was in distress.
  • Whether any signs of deterioration in Ricky’s condition were recognised and acted upon promptly.
  • When medical assistance was requested, what information was provided, and whether the response was adequate.
  • The communication and handover between police officers and ambulance personnel.
  • What learning arises from Ricky’s death to reduce the risk of similar incidents occurring in the future.

The family is not asking anyone to reach conclusions before the evidence has been examined. They are asking for all relevant evidence to be secured, disclosed and scrutinised, so that the truth of what happened to Ricky can be established.

Ricky was a unique and much-loved person. The family want him to be remembered not only for the circumstances of his death, but for the life he lived and the place he held in the hearts of those who loved him.

The family are grateful for the support and condolences they have received. They ask that their privacy is respected while the independent investigation and coronial proceedings continue.

The family will not be making any further comment on the circumstances of Ricky’s death at this stage.

The family are represented by our Director and Head of Inquests, Gareth Naylor.

ENDS