Man allegedly involved in fight on King William Street dies in police custody

A 41-year-old man’s death after being arrested over a fight with a teenager will be treated as a death in custody, police say.

Police say they will carry out a thorough and independent investigation after a man died in their custody after being arrested in the city on Friday night.

The 41-year-old man died after he was involved in a fight with a 17-year-old boy on King William St in the city, then arrested.

Police were called to a fight between the man and a 17-year-old boy, on King William St near Parliament House at 9.27pm.

Both men were restrained and placed under arrest.

During the arrest the 41-year-old became unresponsive and was later pronounced dead at the scene following CPR from police and SA Ambulance staff.

The scene of a fight on King William Street where a 41 year old male died . Picture: 7NEWS

The scene of a fight on King William Street where a 41 year old male died . Picture: 7NEWS

Police say his death occured while in police custody.

The teenager was taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital for treatment injuries he sustained during the altercation.

No weapons were used during the fight, which spilt from the footpath onto the road, stopping traffic, police say.

Detective Inspector Brett Featherby. Picture: Cathy Davis

Police say they do not believe the fight has any links to recent gang violence in the CBD.

Major Crime and Ethical and Professional Standards detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death in custody.

Detective Inspector Brett Featherby from the Major Crime division said police would carry out a thorough and independent investigation of the man’s death.

“We will be investigating both the criminal and the coronial aspects of the incident,” Detective Insp Featherby said.

“Currently the investigation is in its infancy.”

Police have called on anyone with information that may help them in their inquiries to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.