Family Seeks Answers After Man Dies in Inglewood Police Custody

Bryan Bostic died March 10 after being detained by officers, according to city officials.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 3:50am

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The family of a 37-year-old man who died after being taken into custody by Inglewood police is demanding answers about what happened during a traffic stop that preceded his death. City officials say the cause of death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner and that the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office is investigating the circumstances leading up to Bostic's death.

Why it matters

This incident has raised concerns about police transparency and accountability, as the family has questioned the lack of body-worn cameras and the assurances made by the mayor about the timeline of events. The death of a person in police custody is a sensitive and high-profile issue that can have significant implications for community trust in law enforcement.

The details

According to city officials, after officers made contact with Bostic, they believed he attempted to conceal something. A struggle followed, additional officers arrived, and Bostic was placed under arrest. The mayor said Bostic was sweating profusely and had a contusion on his cheek, and paramedics were called to examine him. Paramedics cleared Bostic to be taken to the station and booked, but officers later noticed he was not breathing when they arrived at the police station and began CPR.

  • On March 10, Bryan Bostic died after being detained by Inglewood police officers.
  • Around 9:30 p.m., Bostic was pulled over at the corner of Hillcrest and Nutwood.

The players

Bryan Bostic

A 37-year-old man who died after being taken into custody by Inglewood police.

James Butts

The mayor of Inglewood, who has provided information about the incident and the ongoing investigations.

Marie Darden

Bostic's aunt, who has questioned the mayor's assurances about the timeline of events.

Los Angeles County Medical Examiner

The agency that will determine the cause of Bostic's death.

Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office

The agency investigating the circumstances leading up to Bostic's death.

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What they’re saying

“I can assure you that Brian was alive in back of the police car before they got to the police station.”

— James Butts, Mayor of Inglewood

“Crap. That's bull crap. It should be body cams. How could you assure me that if you weren't there at the crime?”

— Marie Darden, Bostic's aunt

“We don't know what happened. We're so heartbroken. It's unimaginable, really.”

— Talia, Bostic's relative

“He spoke life into you. If you were having a bad day, he could lift you up. Brian was truly something special, which is why we're all out here today.”

— Talia, Bostic's relative

What’s next

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner will determine the cause of Bostic's death, and the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office will continue its investigation into the circumstances leading up to his death.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has raised important questions about police transparency, accountability, and the use of body-worn cameras, which could provide critical evidence in cases like this. The family's grief and desire for answers highlight the need for thorough and impartial investigations to ensure justice and build trust between the community and law enforcement.