Watchdog to investigate death of man after police contact at Bristol protest

The police watchdog is investigating the use of force against a retired NHS worker who attended a counter-demonstration against the far right and died shortly after contact with officers there.

Nicholas Stone, 65, who lived in Bristol, died on 10 January after becoming unwell at a protest opposing the rightwing group Bristol Patriots, who were demonstrating in the city centre.

According to information from Stone’s family’s legal team and the police, during the demonstration, at approximately 11.54am, Stone ran towards Clare Street at the same time police officers were approaching that street to form a cordon. Two officers used force to prevent Stone passing.

As a result, he ended up on the ground on his back. He was helped to his feet by other protesters. At about 1pm, a first aider was asked to assist him as he said he was feeling clammy and cold. She helped him into a taxi at 1.19pm. Avon and Somerset police told the Guardian they received a call from the ambulance service about a man in cardiac arrest at 1.50pm. He died at the scene.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct initially declined to investigate, instead stating that Avon and Somerset police should conduct an internal investigation. But they have now confirmed they will conduct an independent investigation.

“Following representations made to the IOPC, we re-assessed that decision and decided that an independent investigation was necessary,” an IOPC spokesperson said

“We are examining Mr Stone’s contact with officers including any use of force and whether that was necessary, reasonable and proportionate in the circumstances.”

“We have been advised by the force that, Nicholas Stone had some interaction with officers just before midday on 10 January 2026.

“We received a mandatory referral from Avon and Somerset police in January 2026.”

Nicholas Stone’s daughter, Celia Stone, 33, who lives in Manchester, welcomed the decision by IOPC to investigate her father’s death.

She told the Guardian that the IOPC have written to her and said it had been decided to independently investigate the case due to the seriousness of it and public interest factors.

“It’s frustrating that it has taken four months and multiple representations,” she said. “The lawfulness of the force used against my dad and whether it was necessary and proportionate needs to be investigated. It’s not only important for our family but it’s also in the public interest to make sure this is investigated properly. I’m determined to fight for as long as it takes to get justice for my dad.”