Inmate dies in custody at Beaufort County Detention Center. Here’s what we know
A 40-year-old inmate at the Beaufort County Detention Center died from suicide June 9, according to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.
A correctional officer found the inmate in his cell, according to a police report. The inmate had been facing charges of grand larceny of a motor vehicle, nonviolent burglary and resisting arrest.
Deputies responded to the Beaufort County Detention Center around 7:15 p.m., according to Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Maj. Bob Bromage. When deputies arrived, Beaufort County EMS and Beaufort/Port Royal Fire personnel were attempting to revive the inmate.
First responders called the inmate’s time of death at 7:55 p.m.
Another corrections officer had spoken to the inmate earlier at 6:50 p.m. while collecting dinner trays.
Beaufort’s Assistant County Administrator of Public Safety Phil Foot said that the Sheriff’s Office is investigating and said he could not comment until the investigation is complete.
An autopsy was performed at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, Deputy Coroner Debbie Youmans said.
The Island Packet generally does not identify those who die by suicide.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREHow to help someone showing warning signs of suicide
Suicide is complex. Mental disorders and/or substance abuse have been found in 90% of people who have died by suicide. Click the dropdown for resources available to help.
Here are some of the warning signs that someone may be considering harming themselves:
Talking about wanting to die
Looking for a way to kill or harm oneself
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain
Talking about being a burden to others
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
Acting anxious, agitated or reckless
What to do if someone you know exhibits any warning signs of suicide:
Do not leave the person alone. Stay with them or on the phone with them to keep them talking.
Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt.
Call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or the S.C. Department of Mental Health’s 24/7 crisis response line at 833-364-2274.
Bring the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional.
