Police Watchdog Investigates Missing Teen Death
14 February 2017, 18:55 | Updated: 14 February 2017, 18:57
A watchdog has launched an investigation into the actions of police in relation to the death of a teenager who had been reported missing.
Blake Ross, 13, was found on a Lothian Bus in Edinburgh at about 4pm on Monday after falling unwell.
The boy, who had an underlying health condition, was taken to the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in the capital, where he died at around 9pm.
A search was launched for the teenager after he was reported missing without his medication from the Howdenhall area of the city at about 3.15pm on Saturday Feburary 11.
The Police Investigations and Review Commission (Pirc) has been instructed to look into police actions relating to the boy's death.
His death is being treated by officers as unexplained and police are continuing their inquiries.
Superintendent Lesley Clark said: "Police Scotland has reported the circumstances surrounding the death of 13-year-old Blake Ross, who was reported missing from the Howdenhall area on Saturday, February 11, to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.
"The matter has now been referred to the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner.
"As in all matters concerning police contact before death, we will provide any necessary assistance to the Pirc as they conduct their investigation and we await the outcome of their report.
"This is a tragic set of circumstances and thoughts and condolences are with Blake's family and friends.''
A Pirc spokesman said: "The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has directed the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc) to carry out an independent investigation into police actions relating to the death of Blake Ross, 13, on Monday February 13 2017.
"A report on the commissioner's findings will be submitted to the COPFS in due course.''
