2 Elbert County inmates die after separate medical emergencies

ELBERTON, Ga. — Two inmates at the Elbert County Detention Center died following separate medical emergencies this month, prompting investigations by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

According to the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office, the first incident occurred during the early morning hours of June 1. While conducting routine jail checks, detention officers discovered an inmate unresponsive but still breathing.

The inmate had been housed separately from other inmates because of medical issues. Sheriff’s officials said the inmate had experienced a medical problem earlier that night, and detention center staff had contacted medical professionals and provided care based on their instructions.

When officers found the inmate unresponsive, they immediately began lifesaving measures until emergency medical personnel arrived, the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office said. The inmate was transported to a local hospital and later transferred to another medical facility, where he died on June 9.

Two days later, another inmate died. According to officials, at approximately 4:16 a.m., detention officers called 911 requesting an ambulance for an inmate experiencing a medical emergency. The inmate had been placed on medical watch in a holding cell to allow for closer monitoring by detention staff.

During a routine cell check, officers said they found the inmate lying on the floor unresponsive and not breathing. Detention officers immediately called 911 and began lifesaving efforts, including CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), until EMS personnel arrived.

The inmate was transported to Elbert Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

As required in cases involving deaths of individuals in custody, the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office requested the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to lead the investigations into both deaths.