SALEM — Indiana State Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of 61-year-old Stephen Cole, an inmate who passed away while in custody two weeks ago.
Cole was arrested on September 4 for possession of meth and other drug-related charges.
According to Indiana State Police Sgt. Carey Huls, the incident occurred on September 12 when Cole slipped and fell while exiting the shower at the jail. Jail staff responded promptly and checked his vitals; however, he later became unresponsive in his cell.
Emergency medical personnel rushed Cole to a local hospital in Salem, where he received initial treatment before being transferred to Norton Hospital in Louisville. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries on September 15.
While investigators await final autopsy results, they have conducted interviews and reviewed surveillance footage from the facility. Authorities have stated that foul play is not suspected in Cole’s death.
The investigation is ongoing, and officials are working to gather more information about the incident. WBIW will provide further updates as they become available.
