Karnell Kelly dies after police chase into canal at Notting Hill Carnival

Karnell Kelly, aged 25, died following an incident at Notting Hill Carnival on Sunday, August 31, after he entered a canal during a police pursuit. Officers stopped Mr Kelly on Harrow Road at approximately 3.20pm. He then ran away from the police, who gave chase along Hormead Road. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

Incident details

The IOPC stated that officers and other carnival attendees pulled Mr Kelly from the water. Emergency first aid was administered at the scene by officers. Mr Kelly was taken to hospital where he later died. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed. A Metropolitan Police officer also sustained injuries while in the water.

The police watchdog confirmed it was notified by the Met Police on Monday, September 1. Initial accounts have been taken from 10 officers who are being treated as witnesses. Divers from the Met's Marine Policing Unit conducted a search of the canal area on Wednesday, September 3, as investigators work to establish the cause of Mr Kelly's and the officer's injuries.

Call for information

Amanda Rowe, IOPC director of engagement, expressed condolences to Mr Kelly's family and those affected. "We need to independently establish the exact circumstances of this incident given that he has died following an interaction with police officers," Ms Rowe stated. The IOPC is appealing for anyone who witnessed or recorded any part of the incident to contact investigators via email at HormeadRoad@policeconduct.gov.uk. They have also requested that individuals refrain from speculating about or sharing footage of Mr Kelly's final moments. The IOPC has met with Mr Kelly's family to explain their investigation process and will provide them with regular updates.