The Saskatchewan RCMP released a media advisory on Friday afternoon that Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes is investigating the death of a male who was arrested and released by Morse RCMP two hours prior to his death.

Around 2:30 p.m. on August 4th, the Morse RCMP conducted a traffic stop on Highway #1 near Morse. The RCMP stopped a vehicle with a lone driver. The driver was a 23-year-old male from Edmonton, AB. He was then arrested for possession of a controlled substance after police located a small quantity of unknown pills during a search of the vehicle.

The male was released without charges just over an hour later around 3:45 p.m.

Around 5:45 p.m. the RCMP learned the same male was receiving medical treatment by EMS. The male was transported to hospital where he died several hours later.

His name is not being released at this time.

Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes will conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of the 23-year-old male due to his recent interactions with police and the presence and seizure of an unknown substance from his vehicle.

The Saskatchewan Coroners Service is also investigating and an autopsy will take place.

Saskatchewan RCMP has requested the Saskatchewan Ministry of Justice and Attorney General appoint an independent oversight observer in accordance with Section 91.1 of the Saskatchewan Police Act.