Newport News police, sheriff's office investigating suicide at city jail

In an apparent suicide by hanging, a 54-year-old Newport News woman died at the Newport News City Jail the morning of Friday, July 13, according to a press release.

Newport News police arrested the woman and charged her with driving-while-impaired, second offense and brought her to the jail around 1:20 a.m. Friday. Police placed her in a booking area holding cell at 2:35 a.m. Less than 20 minutes later, she was discovered slumped over in a seated position with clothing wrapped around her neck, according to the release.

Deputies immediately went to her aid and made a medical emergency call over the radio. Jail nurses and other deputies arrived a short time later.

CPR began on the woman after the clothing item was removed from her neck and continued until paramedics arrived. Paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene, according to the release.

The woman made no threats to harm herself during the intake process and did not indicate having suicidal thoughts, according to the release.

The Newport News Police Department is conducting an external investigation and the Newport News Sheriff's Office is conducting an internal investigation.

This news report is based on information provided by law enforcement authorities. If you believe this report is in error, please contact the issuing authority.

Filed under: POLICEFIRE