A 68-year-old inmate at the Howard County Jail in Kokomo, Ind., died Friday morning after reporting difficulty breathing. Despite a swift response from correctional officers and on-site medical staff, he could not be saved.
68-year-old Howard County Jail inmate dies after medical episode

Key Takeaways:
- The inmate was 68 years old.
- The medical episode occurred on a Friday morning at 11:23 a.m.
- Correctional officers and medical staff responded immediately.
- The inmate’s difficulty in breathing led to a fatal outcome.
- Official confirmation was provided by the Howard County Sheriff’s Office.
Background of the Incident
Shortly before midday on Friday, correctional officers at the Howard County Jail in Kokomo, Ind., received word that a male inmate, aged 68, was feeling unwell and having trouble breathing. The report was logged at 11:23 a.m., according to statements from the Howard County Sheriff’s Office.
The Medical Episode
The inmate reportedly experienced significant discomfort and respiratory distress. Jail staff and medical personnel were notified right away, and they moved quickly to assess the inmate’s needs. Despite those efforts, the situation escalated, ultimately resulting in the inmate’s death.
Response by Authorities
Upon notification, correctional officers and on-site medical staff took immediate action, performing necessary checks to stabilize the man. This swift response underscores the protocol for medical emergencies within the facility. However, the inmate was pronounced dead after attempts to address his condition proved unsuccessful.
Sheriff’s Office Statement
The Howard County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the circumstances of the inmate’s death, noting that officers and medical workers acted in response to the reported breathing difficulties. Details surrounding the exact cause of death remain limited, and the individual’s name was not made public in the initial report.
Ongoing Investigation
While the Sheriff’s Office provided the initial details, no further information regarding the inmate’s identity or the potential underlying causes of the medical episode has been released. Investigations typically follow such incidents, and any additional factors contributing to the inmate’s condition will likely emerge as more information becomes available.