Earlier today, the Lafayette County Sheriff's Office reported an inmate, John Leath Halley Jr., was found unresponsive in his cell at Lafayette County Detention Center. Deputies discovered Halley during routine checks at approximately 1:52 a.m. and sought to administer life-saving measures upon finding him.
According to the social media post from the sheriff’s office, deputies immediately contacted Lafayette County 911 Dispatch. Subsequently dispatched, Baptist Ambulance Service and the Oxford Fire Department arrived on scene at 1:58 a.m., continuing the attempt to revive him. Despite resuscitation efforts by medical personnel, Halley was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.
No foul play is suspected in Halley's death at this time. The cause and manner of his passing will be determined by the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office. Leading the investigation into this incident, the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) has taken the helm, with all queries regarding the investigation directed to MDOC.
Further information regarding the circumstances of Halley's death is currently withheld. The Lafayette County Sheriff's Office has indicated that additional details will be released following the preliminary findings of the state medical examiner and the progression of MDOC's ongoing investigation.
