COOS BAY, Ore. — The family of a man who became unconscious in the back of a patrol car and later died has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city and the responding officers, highlighting serious concerns regarding police handling of health emergencies.
Nathan Bradford Smith, 33, fell ill while in police custody on July 7, 2024. According to legal documents, while Smith gasped for air and slumped over in the police vehicle, the officer transporting him neglected his duties, reportedly spending time on personal phone activities instead of ensuring the man received urgent medical attention.
Lead attorney Juan Chavez, representing the family through the Oregon Justice Resource Center, emphasized the dire situation, stating that Smith exhibited clear signs of medical distress. When Smith was finally seen by medical personnel, his body temperature was recorded at 107 degrees, indicative of severe hyperthermia, which eventually led to his death. Chavez noted that there was a critical 40-minute delay in obtaining necessary medical care.
This incident was not Smith’s first interaction with Coos Bay Police that day. Prior to being placed in the patrol car, Smith had been reported by a 911 caller who expressed concern about him lying on the roadway and exhibiting erratic behavior. Chavez pointed out that at least one officer was already familiar with Smith’s situation and aware of his struggles with substance use and associated mental health issues prior to the emergency call.
Instead of being transported to a nearby hospital, Smith was taken to the police department, where he continued to deteriorate. Surveillance footage reportedly reveals Smith was not only wearing heavy clothing but also that the car windows remained rolled up, contributing to the dangerous rise in his body temperature. As time passed, the officer left Smith alone in the vehicle and took a break to engage in personal messaging and social media activities.
“Every moment counted, and yet he was left unattended, ultimately leading to a tragic outcome,” Chavez said, stressing that this lack of response was not merely negligent but potentially abusive and unconstitutional.
The lawsuit describes the treatment Smith received as a violation of his rights, alleging misconduct on part of both the city and its officers. Medical professionals subsequently attributed Smith’s cause of death to hyperthermia stemming from methamphetamine intoxication, worsened by the heavy attire he wore.
As of now, attempts to reach city officials and the police department for comment have not elicited a response. The family seeks justice through the legal system, reflecting broader issues of accountability within police practices, particularly regarding the management of medical emergencies.
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