WHITING — The Lake County Sheriff’s Department has been asked to lead an independent investigation after a 31-year-old man died while in the custody of the Whiting Police Department.

According to a joint announcement released Monday, the incident occurred in connection with a Whiting Police case. The Whiting Police Department requested that the Sheriff’s Department immediately assume the lead investigative role, following standard protocol for in-custody deaths to ensure an impartial and transparent review.

Authorities said outside investigators were called in immediately after the incident to conduct a comprehensive examination of the circumstances surrounding the man’s death.

“We are committed to a fully transparent and rigorous investigation regarding the events of this custody turn,” Whiting Police Chief Sotello said in a statement. “Our detectives are working meticulously alongside the Lake County Coroner’s Office and Lake County Sheriff’s Department to establish an exact timeline and determine the precise cause of death.”

The Lake County Coroner has identified the male as Cordero M. Hill, 31, of Whiting. The cause and manner of his death is pending autopsy and toxicology.

Officials also declined to release details regarding the man’s initial arrest or the medical emergency that led to his death, stating that withholding the information is necessary to protect the integrity of the active investigation.

The Lake County Coroner’s Office will determine the official cause and manner of death following the autopsy.

The Lake County Sheriff’s Department emphasized that the investigation remains active, and no additional information will be released at this time.

As with any investigation, Region News Source will provide updates as more information becomes available.