In-custody death being investigated in Vermilion Parish

On Tuesday, July 12, the Vermilion Parish Sheriff's Office responded to a complaint on Hargrave Road in reference to a white male subject attempting to gain entry into a residence.  
During the investigation, deputies attempted to arrest 49-year-old Walter Rivers of Kaplan.
During the arrest process, Walters began to resist arrest and fight with deputies. While resisting arrest, Rivers collapsed and was unresponsive. Deputies called for an ambulance and immediately began CPR. While at the hospital Rivers was pronounced dead. 
Sheriff Couvillon immediately requested Louisiana State Police Detectives to investigate the in custody death.
“There was no firearm or taser used by the two deputies in their efforts to gain control of the resisting subject during the arrest. Mr. Rivers collapsed for unknown reasons after being physically arrested and deputies began CPR immediately until relieved by the ambulatory service. I am confident that my deputies handled this situation professionally from start to finish and that the investigation will conclude in their favor”, said Sheriff Couvillon.  
Both officers have been placed on administrative leave.
Please forward all questions and phone calls to Louisiana State Police.