An inmate at the El Paso County Jail was found unresponsive in her cell on Thursday evening and was pronounced dead shortly after, officials said. Deputies from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, along with medical staff, attempted to render lifesaving aid after discovering the 47-year-old female at approximately 6:47 pm, as reported by the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. Efforts continued with the arrival of American Medical Response (AMR) and the Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD), who took over at about 6:57 pm.
The inmate, whose identity has yet to be released pending notification of next of kin, was pronounced deceased at 7:40 pm. The El Paso County Sheriff's Office expressed its condolences to the individual’s family and friends "during this difficult time," in a statement. Adding to the tragedy, Sheriff Bill Elder has ordered an exhaustive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the inmate's death.
The initial investigation by the sheriff's office does not suggest self-harm, assault, or foul play. Sheriff Roybal has been proactive in seeking clarity on the incident, calling for an autopsy to be conducted by the El Paso County Coroner’s Office. The Identification of the deceased and further details will be provided by the coroner once deemed suitable for release to the public.
