A man died in custody, a gruesome video went viral, police on the scene: "He was just asking for help!"

A 42-year-old Moroccan man died during a police intervention in Bologna on Sunday morning, according to local media reports. The incident occurred in the Pilastro district, where the man, named Abderrahim Fakir, was found acting erratically in a garage. He was identified as the owner of a freight company and had arrived in the area to visit family, according to Ansa. The police were called after residents reported the man’s unusual behavior. Officers arrived and attempted to calm him down, but Fakir became increasingly agitated. During the encounter, he reportedly kicked at a police vehicle several times. After failed attempts to subdue him, officers used a tear gas canister and subdued him, placing him on the ground and applying handcuffs and leg restraints. Footage captured by a resident of one of the surrounding buildings shows the final moments of the confrontation. On camera, Fakir is heard shouting, “Enough, help!” as police attempt to control him. Once his hands are bound behind his back and his legs restrained, he appears to stop responding. Emergency services were immediately summoned, but despite medical efforts, Fakir did not survive. The exact cause of death has yet to be officially confirmed. Authorities have stated that body camera footage from the officers will be submitted to the prosecutor's office overseeing the investigation. A separate internal inquiry into the actions of the local health service is also underway to determine all circumstances surrounding the incident. Family members have expressed outrage, claiming the situation involved excessive force. They argue that the man was simply seeking assistance and that the police response was unwarranted. One sibling described the emotional toll of the tragedy, stating they would not rest until justice is served for their brother. Residents of Pilastro have taken to the streets in protest, demanding accountability. Some have called for greater transparency regarding the police procedures used during such interventions. A witness from a nearby building testified that Fakir had been repeatedly asking for help throughout the entire incident. “He kept saying he needed help. He didn’t do anything, just asked for help,” the resident said. Local officials, including Mayor Matteo Lepore and regional president Michele de Pascale, have urged a complete clarification of the events leading to Fakir’s death. They emphasized the need for a thorough examination of whether the police action was justified and whether the manner in which Fakir was restrained could have contributed to his death. As the investigation continues, public attention remains focused on the broader implications of police conduct during high-stress situations. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the balance between law enforcement authority and individual rights, particularly in cases involving individuals who may be experiencing mental distress or other underlying conditions. The outcome of the inquiry is expected to provide further insight into these complex issues.