Inmate dies after apparent seizure at Sacramento jail

Officials say no foul play suspected in death at Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:55pm

A 57-year-old inmate at the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center in Sacramento County died over the weekend after suffering an apparent seizure, according to the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office. Staff performed CPR and the inmate was taken to the hospital, but he died on Sunday evening. Authorities say his death is believed to be from medical complications and no foul play is suspected.

Why it matters

Inmate deaths in custody are a serious issue that raise concerns about the quality of medical care and safety protocols in correctional facilities. This incident at the Rio Cosumnes jail highlights the need for ongoing oversight and reform to ensure the wellbeing of incarcerated individuals.

The details

On Sunday afternoon, other inmates in the open pod alerted deputies that the 57-year-old inmate was having what looked like a seizure. Staff found him unresponsive in his bunk and began CPR. The inmate regained a pulse before being transported to the hospital, but he ultimately died on Sunday evening. The sheriff's office says his death is believed to be from medical complications and no foul play is suspected.

  • On Sunday afternoon, other inmates alerted deputies that the inmate was having a seizure.
  • Staff found the inmate unresponsive in his bunk and began CPR.
  • The inmate was taken to the hospital but died on Sunday evening.

The players

Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center

A county jail facility located about 10 miles south of Elk Grove, California.

Sacramento County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the inmate's death.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing need for improved medical care and safety protocols in correctional facilities to prevent unnecessary deaths of incarcerated individuals.