Police say suspicious circumstances now ruled out following Brighton man's death

Police had appealed for witnesses after the man’s death, which followed a ‘violent’ incident outside a restaurant in Western Road, Brighton, on December 2.

On December 17 the 47-year-old fell seriously ill and was admitted to the Royal Sussex County Hospital where he died on Boxing Day, police said.

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It prompted police to launch a manslaughter investigation, but following the pathologist’s report and speaking to a man and a woman whose photographs were circulated as potentially having information, suspicious circumstances have now been ruled out.

The man and woman voluntarily attended Brighton police station and after being questioned were allowed to go.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Wolstenholme said: “Sussex Police investigates unexplained deaths to ensure possible criminal causes are identified.

“Families are supported in understanding what happened to their loved ones, and officers assist the coroner in determining how people have come by their deaths.

“We are very grateful for the support we get from the public in seeking to achieve this, and I would like to thank all those who responded to media appeals for assistance.

“In particular I would commend the two individuals featured in the photographs for presenting themselves so quickly. Because of this, we’ve been able to deal with this matter more swiftly than we might otherwise have done.

“At this time, our sympathies are with the family of the man who died.”

A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of affray and released under investigation.