Prisoner dies after medical event at Waikato's Spring Hill Corrections Facility

Spring Hill Corrections Facility.
Spring Hill Corrections Facility. Photo credit: Getty Images

A prisoner has died at Waikato's Spring Hill Corrections Facility following a suspected medical event.

Spring Hill's prison director Scott Walker says there is no indication his death is suspicious and staff made every effort to save him.

"Our thoughts are with the man's family and friends. Other men in the unit and staff are being provided with support," he says.

Police will notify the man's next of kin.

Walker says all deaths in custody are referred to the Coroner for investigation and to determine the cause of death. An investigation by the independent Corrections Inspectorate will also be done.

He adds since the man's death is subject to investigation and the Coroner needs to determine the cause, he is limited in the details he can give.