57-Year-Old Inmate Dies at DeKalb County Jail

Authorities investigating death of Michael Gafa, who was in custody since September 2025

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The DeKalb County Sheriff's Office reported that a 57-year-old inmate named Michael Gafa died on Sunday, February 14, at the DeKalb County Jail. Gafa was found unresponsive in his cell, and medical staff and EMS responded but were unable to revive him. The Sheriff's Office stated they are investigating the circumstances surrounding Gafa's death, though there is no initial indication of foul play or criminal activity.

Why it matters

Inmate deaths in custody are a serious concern, as they raise questions about the conditions and care provided in detention facilities. This incident will likely prompt further scrutiny of the DeKalb County Jail's policies and procedures around inmate health and safety.

The details

Michael Gafa, a 57-year-old inmate, was found unresponsive in his cell at the DeKalb County Jail. On-site medical staff and DeKalb EMS responded immediately but were unable to revive Gafa, who was pronounced deceased at the scene. The DeKalb Sheriff's Office stated they are investigating the circumstances surrounding Gafa's death, though there is no initial indication of foul play or criminal activity.

  • Gafa had been in custody at the DeKalb County Jail since September 2025.
  • Gafa died on Sunday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Michael Gafa

A 57-year-old inmate who died at the DeKalb County Jail.

Melody M. Maddox

The Sheriff of DeKalb County, Georgia.

DeKalb County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating Gafa's death at the DeKalb County Jail.

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What they’re saying

“The DeKalb Sheriff's Office takes any loss of life in our custody very seriously. While there is no indication of foul play or criminal activity, incidents of this nature—regardless of cause—are subject to a thorough investigation.”

— Melody M. Maddox, Sheriff of DeKalb County (On Common Ground News)

What’s next

The DeKalb County Sheriff's Office stated they will continue to examine the circumstances surrounding Gafa's death.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of ensuring proper health and safety protocols are in place at detention facilities to prevent inmate deaths and the need for thorough investigations when such tragic events occur.