Death of man on Shirley Road 'not suspicious', police say

The man was pronounced dead outside Freemantle United Reformed Church on Saturday afternoon.

Following a police investigation, his death has been ruled as not suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.

Police were called out to Shirley Road just after 12pm after paramedics from South Central Ambulance Service reported being at the scene of a concern for welfare incident.

The man died a short time later.

The church, next to IMO car wash, was cordoned off and a forensic tent put up outside.

Around four police vans were parked in the area on Saturday. Two officers were guarding the cordon while a team of forensics wearing disposable suits and PPE were seen walking in and out the tent.

Police outside Freemantle United Reformed Church (Image: Newsquest)

Police returned to the scene on Sunday to continue the investigation. They have now left.

Passers-by described the news that a man had died as “shocking”.

Residents who live next to the church say the site is “quiet” and they didn’t hear anything until the police cordoned off the area at around noon.

Staff at The Rover Inn just across the road saw an ambulance arrive followed by police.

On social media, residents have been sharing their condolences to the man’s family.

Commenting on the Daily Echo Facebook page, Kenzie Annell said: “Police have been to the church multiple times in the past few months. Sadly this time it’s resulted in a poor man dying, condolences to his family.”

“Thoughts are with family and friends,” said Barbara Johnson.

Emma Lee added: “My thoughts are with all who knew him well.”

The Echo understands Freemantle United Reformed Church has been closed for some time after being sold to St Mark’s Church of England in Archers Road.