Pubdate: Sat, 12 Jul 2008
Source: State Journal, The (WV)
Copyright: 2008 The State Journal
Contact:  http://www.statejournal.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2745

SCOTT DEPOT MAN DIES AFTER SWALLOWING DRUGS DURING DRUG INVESTIGATION

Huntington officials and West Virginia State Police  continue to
investigate.

HUNTINGTON -- Huntington Police say the HPD Drug Unit,  DEA, and West
Virginia State Police were conducting a  drug investigation in the
3100 block of Fifth Avenue  Friday. During the investigation officers
stopped a  2008 Chevy Trail Blazer driven by Christopher Lee  Ratliff
of Scott Depot.

Police were trying to detain Ratliff when he swallowed  a baggy
containing suspected heroine. Ratliff  immediately suffered medical
distress. Upon arrival,  EMS rendered aid and transported Ratliff to
St. Mary's  Hospital. Ratliff died a short time after his arrival.

The body will be taken to the State Medical Examiner's  Office. The
autopsy will include toxicology testing.

Officials are continuing to investigate.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin