News

SBI investigating death of 35-year-old in police custody

By Lightning Reports, Published: June 16, 2022

FLETCHER —The SBI is investigating the death of a 35-year-old man who died in police custody after fighting with officers and then being handcuffed, Fletcher Police Chief Dan Terry said in a news release.

An investigation is underway of an in-custody death occurring in a parking lot at the Seasons at Cane Creek apartment complex on Wedndesday.

After responding to a 911 call at 8:30 Wednesday nightr at 352 Seasons Circle officers encountered Christopher Robert Hensley. A fight ensued between officers and Hensley in the parking lot. The caller told a dispatcher that Hensley would not let her leave and was possibly on drugs. A fight began when Fletcher police officers confronted Hensley and officers then requested backup from the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office. After being handcuffed, Hensley became unresponsive and later died at the hospital, police said. Officers began CPR and requested Emergency Medical Services. Two officers were also taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

The investigation has been turned over to the SBI. Anyone with additional information, videos or photos of the incident is asked to call the Fletcher Police Department at 828-687-7922 or SBI Special Agent Ashe at 828-330-4700.