Police Force Makes Mandatory Referral Following Discovery of Body
Surrey Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) following the unexplained death of a man in his 30s in Guildford. The force confirmed it is mandatory procedure due to officers having had contact with the man before he died.
Body Discovered on Residential Street
The incident began when a member of the public discovered a man's body outside a residential address on Hazel Avenue in the Bellfields area. The discovery was made just after 7.15am on Friday, 10 January 2026. Police were immediately called to the scene.
While formal identification is pending, officers believe they have identified the man. His next of kin have been informed of the tragic development.
Investigation and Road Closure
Following an initial investigation at the scene, police stated the death is being treated as unexplained, but they do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances. The force is preparing a file for the coroner.
As part of the response, Hazel Avenue was closed to allow officers to conduct their enquiries. The road is located north of Guildford town centre.
In their statement, Surrey Police emphasised that there is no wider risk to the public in relation to this incident. The referral to the IOPC is a standard step when there has been prior police contact with a person who subsequently dies.
