Apr 09, 2021

KBI investigating death of inmate in county jail

Posted Apr 09, 2021 8:30 PM

MCPHERSON — Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of an inmate at the McPherson County Jail.

Just after 2p.m. Thursday 55-year-old  Kevin Brittingham of Newton was arrested for domestic battery and booked into the jail, according to a media release. During the booking process, he was placed in a holding cell.

At approximately 3:35 p.m. Thursday, a McPherson County Correctional Officer discovered Brittingham unresponsive in his booking cell. Life-saving measures were attempted, including CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator.

McPherson Fire and McPherson EMS responded to the jail and continued attempts to resuscitate Brittingham. Brittingham was pronounced dead at approximately 4:05 p.m.

The McPherson County Sheriff's Office requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation investigate, as is required by state statute. The KBI investigates all deaths of individuals in the custody of a Kansas jail or prison, unless the inmate is being regularly attended by a physician. 

Brittingham's injuries appear to have been self-inflicted. An autopsy will be conducted. The investigation continues.