The Stark County Coroner's Office has declared the April death of Frank Tyson, a man who passed away while in the custody of Canton police, a homicide. This finding was made public yesterday, adding a grave dimension to an incident that has already sparked investigation and controversy. According to a News 5 Cleveland report, the preliminary autopsy released by Chief Investigator Harry Campbell listed "cardiopulmonary arrest in association with physical altercation and prone restraint" as the cause of death.

On the evening of April 18, after a vehicle crash in the 1700 block of Sherrick Road SE, Tyson fled the scene and was later apprehended by officers at an AMVETS post nearby. Witnesses directed the arriving officers to Tyson's location, where body camera footage later obtained by WKYC shows a struggle ensuing with fatal consequences. In a tragic turn of events, after being restrained, Tyson was heard on video stating "I can't breathe."

Additional factors were noted in Tyson's death, such as ischemic cardiovascular disease, acute intoxication by cocaine and ethanol, and obesity. News 5 Cleveland reported these as contributing to the ruling by the coroner. Meanwhile, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is investigating the case, though they have not released a report of their findings yet.

The Canton Police Department has placed officers Beau Schoenegge and Camden Burch of the traffic bureau, who were involved in the incident, on paid administrative leave per department policy. Civil rights attorney Bobby DiCello, representing Tyson's family, spoke with WKYC and highlighted the family's grief. “The latest developments have reopened old wounds for Tyson's loved ones,” DiCello told WKYC. He continued, divulging the family's disappointment on not yet having the opportunity to meet with Police Chief John Gabbard to discuss the circumstances of Tyson's passing.

This case joins a somber list of instances where individuals, particularly those of color, have died during encounters with law enforcement, reigniting debates and calls for thorough investigation and police reform. Public response and further developments are closely monitored as the investigation by Ohio BCI proceeds.