State Bureau of Investigation launches probe after detainee dies following medical emergency at Forsyth County jail.
Winston-Salem, N.C. — A person who was arrested for trespassing at a Forsyth County hospital on Friday died after suffering an apparent medical emergency while in police custody, according to the Winston-Salem Police Department. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has been asked to review the incident.
Police said officers were called to the hospital after the individual allegedly refused to leave the property. The person, whose name has not been released, was taken into custody without the use of force and transported to the Forsyth County Law Enforcement Detention Center.
While at the detention center, the individual experienced what police described as “an apparent medical emergency.” Officers, jail staff, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel responded and performed life-saving measures, police said in a news release. Despite their efforts, the person was pronounced dead.
“At this time, we will not be releasing the identity of the officer involved in this incident,” the department said. “The officer involved in this incident will participate in a critical incident debrief. We will also be utilizing resources to meet the officer’s emotional and mental health needs.”
The State Bureau of Investigation confirmed it was requested by Forsyth County officials to conduct an independent inquiry into the in-custody death, which is standard protocol in such cases. The SBI’s findings will be turned over to the Forsyth County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Winston-Salem police emphasized that no physical force was used during the arrest and said that the department is cooperating fully with the SBI investigation. The police statement did not identify the hospital involved or provide additional details about the circumstances leading up to the arrest.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Winston-Salem Police Department at 336-773-7700 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 336-727-2800.
The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, which operates the detention center, has not issued a separate statement regarding the death. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the official cause of death.
The death marks the latest in a series of in-custody fatalities that have drawn scrutiny across North Carolina in recent years. Civil rights advocates have called for increased transparency in such investigations, particularly regarding the release of body-camera footage and medical findings.
No further details were immediately available Saturday. The Winston-Salem Police Department said updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.