***UPDATE***

ASHLAND, Ky. (April 11, 2023) – The Kentucky State Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the official cause of death of Mr. Wilkerson is Acute Methamphetamine Intoxication in the setting of an attempted arrest where he attempted to elude law enforcement on foot. Mr. Wilkerson, along with methamphetamine, had amphetamines and THC in his blood upon toxicology testing. Mr. Wilkerson had a medical history of a prior heart condition that included congestive heart failure, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. These are all contributing factors in his death. On scene for Ashland Police Department were:

Officer John McCormick, 16 years of law enforcement experience, seven years with APD

Officer Chris Brislin, 17 years with APD

Officer Tony Floyd, 21 years with APD

All media inquiries please contact Captain Blanton at 502-782-1618 (Office) or Howard.Blanton@ky.gov.

Original News Release below:

ASHLAND, Ky. (March 6, 2023) – Kentucky State Police, Post 14 was contacted by Ashland Police Department to investigate an in-custody death that occurred on March 2, 2023, while they were serving a warrant. An autopsy conducted by the State Medical Examiner revealed Clarence Wilkerson’s cause of death was not due to a traumatic event but possibly related to preexisting medical ailments.

Toxicology reports are pending.

The investigation is active and ongoing. Additional details will be released when appropriate.

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