POCJ inmate dies after found unresponsive

NEWPORT, Wash. — A 61-year-old male inmate was pronounced dead Thursday after being found unresponsive at the Pend Oreille County Jail, despite life-saving efforts.

Newport Police Department officials said the inmate was discovered unresponsive and not breathing at about 11:42 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 28. Despite efforts by Pend Oreille County Jail corrections staff and medical personnel, he was pronounced dead.

The Spokane County Medical Examiner’s Office was notified, responded to the scene, and took jurisdiction of the body. The office will determine the cause and manner of death.

The investigation is ongoing, and no further information is being released at this time.