Marion County Sheriff Kevin Cripps says an investigation is underway into the death of 56-year-old Bryan Hester of Salem while he was an inmate at the Marion County Jail. Cripps says Hester was found unresponsive in his cell in what is believed to be a suicide attempt.
The sheriff reports that correctional staff and emergency personnel immediately initiated life-saving measures. However, despite all efforts, Hester was pronounced deceased at 6:36 Sunday evening by Marion County Coroner Claude Howell.
In accordance with standard protocol, the Illinois State Police have been requested to conduct an independent investigation.
Cripps says the investigation remains ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
