By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office has released details regarding the death of a man who passed away while in custody at the San Diego Central Jail on January 10.
The deceased, identified as 68-year-old Donell Duckett, was pronounced dead at 4:02 a.m. at a local hospital. According to a statement from the Sheriff’s Office, Duckett had been in custody since July 8, 2024, on charges related to the transportation, sales, and possession of controlled substances.
Duckett, who was homeless, had been housed in the jail’s Medical Observation Unit due to chronic medical conditions and his refusal of treatment. Sheriff’s Homicide investigators were informed of his death shortly after it occurred.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, medical staff conducting routine hourly rounds found Duckett in his cell showing signs of medical distress. Medical personnel, supported by deputies and a medical doctor, assessed his condition and determined that hospital transport was necessary. During preparations for transport, Duckett became unresponsive, prompting CPR. Despite these efforts, he was pronounced deceased upon arrival at the hospital.
An autopsy conducted by the Medical Examiner’s Office on January 11 determined the cause of death to be cardiovascular disease, cerebral disease, hypertensive conditions, end-stage renal disease, and atherosclerosis. The death has been classified as natural.
In a statement, the Sheriff’s Office noted that a Family Liaison Officer has been assigned to assist Duckett’s family during this difficult time.
The Sheriff’s Homicide Unit is conducting a comprehensive investigation to ensure transparency and to examine all circumstances surrounding the incident.
