The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into Kent Police’s contact with a teenager before his death in Tunbridge Wells.

Matthew Mackell, who was just 17-years-old, was found dead in Dunorlan Park on Pembury Road on May 7.

Matthew's father Michael Bond previously said his son had phoned the police in distress at the park just after 10pm.

The IOPC is now investigating how Kent Police staff handled calls with Matthew the evening before his body was found.

It follows a mandatory referral by the force to the IOPC.

IOPC regional director for London and the south east Sarah Green, said: “We will be considering the force’s response to a call made to them by Matthew and whether there is any learning that can be identified.

“We have made initial contact with Matthew’s family to explain our role and we will be keeping them regularly updated as our inquiries progress.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends, and anyone else who may have been affected by his sad death.”

Kent Police says it will support the IOPC’s enquiries.

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Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells