POLICE have confirmed there was no criminal element involved in the death of a 48-year-old man with disabilities who collapsed and died after an altercation at his family home in Taman Desa Baru, Gelugor, early this morning.
According to Northeast District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Abdul Rozak Muhammad, the post-mortem revealed the cause of death to be pulmonary oedema, commonly referred to as fluid in the lungs.
"The cause of death was pulmonary oedema, and police investigations found no signs of criminal wrongdoing. As such, the case remains classified as a sudden death," he said in a statement.
The incident occurred at approximately 3.58am when the deceased’s brother contacted police, claiming that his sibling was acting aggressively and likely ran amok which required intervention.
Upon arrival at the scene, police discovered the man unconscious and lying face down in the kitchen.
"Preliminary investigations found that the deceased, who had a documented history of mental illness, became aggressive and posed a threat to his family members," said Abdul Rozak.
He added that the man collapsed during an attempt by family members to calm him down.
Earlier reports by Harian Metro stated the man had struck his mother with his hand during the outburst. His father and two sisters attempted to intervene, resulting in a struggle during which the man reportedly fell and began bleeding. Emergency services were contacted immediately.
Personnel from the Ministry of Health (KKM) later arrived at the residence and pronounced the man dead at the scene. A medical examination confirmed there were no injuries indicative of foul play.
The body was subsequently taken to Penang Hospital for a full post-mortem examination.
Police have reiterated that the case remains classified as sudden death. - September 12, 2025
