Investigation continues into death of man in police custody

EAST GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – The investigation continues into the death of an East Grand Rapids man after he was tasered three times Monday night by police.

The incident started just after 9:00 Monday night when police where called out to handle a domestic situation on Heather Street SE.

Officers say that when they arrived, they were confronted, and assaulted by 30-year-old Matthew Bolick. Police say it's not the first time they've encountered Bolick, who has had prior arrests.

Now, they're trying to figure out what caused Bolick's death after he was hit with a taser at least three times.

"We originally got the call to Kent County dispatch, it was 'my son is out of control.' He was very physically assaultive," said Mark Herald East Grand Rapids Director of Public Safety.

Police say that when they arrived on the scene, they found Bolick outside the home. Herald says Bolick assaulted one officer, was tasered, and then ran into the home.

"The officers responded and used force in a very reasonable manner and responded, we believe, in an appropriate manner," said Herald.

Officials say officers followed Bolick into the home, where a struggle ensued and Bolick was tasered two to three more times.

"There is some indication that they were concerned about his behavior, which is why we are waiting for the autopsy to see what may have been in his blood," said Herald.

Police say Bolick died in custody, and now both East Grand Rapids and Grand Rapids Police are investigating the incident, which includes looking to see if Bolick was on drugs.

Newschannel 3 has been told that this incident is the first time an East Grand Rapids officer has used a taser since the department got them in January. It is also the first time a suspect has died in custody.

In keeping with department policy, both officers involved have been placed on leave.

Police say they will reevaluate the use of the taser, but in this situation, they do feel it was justified.