Tragedy struck the Marin County Jail as an inmate was found unresponsive by a deputy during a routine cell check and later pronounced dead, officials said. The San Rafael Police Department is now spearheading an investigation into the death that occurred in the early hours of May 30, according to a statement released by the Marin County Sheriff's Office. The identity of the deceased has yet to be released, pending notification of the family.
The situation unfolded when a deputy at the Marin County Jail performing his duties came upon an inmate in dire need of medical help at around 0209 hours. Despite the swift action taken by deputies to administer life-saving measures and the subsequent arrival of the San Rafael Fire Department at approximately 0222 hours, the inmate was pronounced dead at 0247 hrs, according to the sheriff's office press release. The San Rafael Police Department has been tasked with carrying out an independent probe into the circumstances surrounding the inmate's death. At the same time, the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office, Coroners Division, will be responsible for autopsy and other coroner duties.
Authorities have scheduled a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death later this week. The Marin County Sheriff's Office has indicated it will not release additional details regarding the incident. Media questions regarding the ongoing investigation have been directed to the San Rafael Police Department, while inquiries about the deceased should be addressed to the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office at 707-565-3941.
