Kennett man who died after arrest had medical conditions

KENNETT, Mo. -- Preliminary autopsy results show a Southeast Missouri man's death after his arrest was caused by high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, a coroner said Tuesday.

Dunklin County Coroner James Powell identified the suspect as Ernest Williams, 43, of Kennett.

Kennett officers pulled over Williams' car early Sunday. Police say Williams ran, and he was found hiding behind a home a short time later.

He was arrested and taken to the police department, where he complained of shortness of breath.

Williams was taken to a hospital, where he died.

Williams apparently was unaware of his medical conditions, including an enlarged heart, Powell said. The autopsy was performed Monday in Farmington, Missouri.

Final autopsy results aren't expected for six to eight weeks, Powell said.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating at the request of Kennett police. The Associated Press left messages with the patrol seeking comment.

It wasn't clear why Williams was pulled over by police. Dunklin County prosecutor Jeff McCormick said no charges were filed because Williams died so soon after his arrest.