Investigation after death of Lowestoft man

Hayley MaceThe Independent Police Complaints Commission has today announced that it is investigating the actions of Suffolk police following the death of a Lowestoft man.Hayley Mace

The Independent Police Complaints Commission has today announced that it is investigating the actions of Suffolk police following the death of a Lowestoft man.

The IPCC is carrying out an independent investigation into the force's actions following the death of 45-year-old Steven Carter.

Mr Carter, from Lowestoft, was reported missing by his partner on the evening of April 22 after he failed to keep an appointment earlier that day.

On Sunday morning, April 25, his body was found in an area of Wortham after his car was seen in a lay by beside the A143.

IPCC Commissioner Rachel Cerfontyne said: 'This is a very sad incident and I extend my sincere condolences to Mr Carter's family and friends at this difficult time.

'Having reviewed the information about the incident, I believe it necessary to conduct an independent investigation into the police's handling of the missing person report to ensure all the correct policies and procedures were followed when trying to locate Mr Carter.'

The incident was mandatorily referred to the IPCC on 26 April 2010 because of the police's involvement in the search for Mr Carter.

A Suffolk police spokesman said: 'Suffolk constabulary referred this incident to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC). An independent investigation is being conducted by the IPCC; due to this, we cannot comment any further.'