A 54-year-old man, under the care of El Paso County Jail for a terminal illness, was found unresponsive in his cell at the medical housing unit and has died, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office reported.
After the man was found unresponsive, deputies and medical staff at the jail attempted to revive him. The Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) arrived at approximately 9:35 pm to take over the medical response, with American Medical Response (AMR) arriving shortly after. Despite their efforts, the individual was pronounced dead by 9:41 pm, as per El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
The man had recently spent several days being treated at a local hospital where the Sheriff's Office maintained security throughout his stay. In a compassionate attempt, Sheriff Roybal had been working to expedite court proceedings to allow for end-of-life care outside the jail, efforts that were tragically in vain due to the inmate’s premature death.
Held without bond on charges of failing to comply with probation, the deceased was awaiting sentencing at the time of his passing. Although the Sheriff’s Office suspects the death was due to natural causes, an in-depth investigation has been initiated by Sheriff Roybal to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident. The El Paso County Sheriff's Office Investigations Division will conduct the investigation, which aims to follow the established standards for all incidents involving El Paso County citizens. Furthermore, an autopsy has been requested by Sheriff Roybal to be carried out by the El Paso County Coroner’s Office, ensuring due diligence in this sensitive matter.
As the investigation unfolds, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased for their loss during this undoubtedly difficult time.
