Black man pleaded for medical care before death in police custody — Lawsuit

A 32-year-old Black man died in police custody in Virginia, United States, after repeatedly pleading with officers to take him to a hospital, according to a federal lawsuit filed by his mother.

The deceased, identified as Allan F. Tucker II, was arrested on August 15, 2025, for public intoxication following reports that he was shouting and knocking on doors at an apartment building in Alexandria.

According to Black Information Network, Tucker repeatedly requested medical attention while officers transported him to the Alexandria Adult Detention Center.

“Please take me to Alexandria Hospital. Please take me … Take me to Alexandria Hospital please. I need to go to the hospital. I need to go to the hospital, please,” he pleaded.

Despite his requests, officers Chelsea Henry and William McGinnis allegedly drove past a hospital and proceeded to the detention facility.

Tucker reportedly remained handcuffed inside the patrol vehicle for approximately 40 to 45 minutes before officers discovered him unresponsive.

Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

A medical examiner attributed his death to cocaine and cocaethylene intoxication.

His mother, Sandra Jones, filed the lawsuit on October 22, accusing the officers and city authorities of violating her son’s civil rights.

An independent investigation found that an officer violated departmental policy by failing to obtain medical assistance.

Prosecutors previously declined to pursue criminal charges against the officers.