Key facts
- Karnell Kelly, 25, died in hospital after entering the Grand Union Canal while fleeing police.
- Police attempted to stop Kelly near Harrow Road as he approached Notting Hill Carnival.
- Kelly fled on foot and entered the canal off Kensal Road.
- Members of the public and officers rescued Kelly from the water.
- The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the circumstances of his death.
A 25-year-old man named Karnell Kelly has died in hospital after jumping into the Grand Union Canal in west London while being pursued by police officers near Notting Hill Carnival. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon when officers attempted to stop Kelly, who was wearing a face covering, near Harrow Road. He fled on foot, entering the canal off Kensal Road. Members of the public and police officers entered the water to rescue him, and he was taken to a central London hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Kelly's death. The watchdog is reviewing body-worn video footage from the officers involved in the chase down Hormead Road and is appealing for witnesses and any video footage from the public, nearby properties, boats, and barges. The IOPC has urged the public not to speculate about the death.
Amanda Rowe, IOPC director of engagement, stated that the investigation aims to independently establish the exact circumstances of the incident, given that Kelly died following an interaction with police. A police officer reportedly sustained injuries on September 2 while Met Police divers were searching the canal in connection with the incident.
Notting Hill Carnival, which celebrated its 60th anniversary this year, saw hundreds of thousands of attendees over the weekend. The Metropolitan Police reported making over 600 arrests during the event, with 242 arrests on Sunday and 394 on Monday.