An Oakland man died while in custody at Santa Rita Jail in Alameda County after suffering a medical emergency over the weekend, according to the Sheriff's Office. Jeffrey McMaster, 44, had been held at the jail since February on suspicion of murder and died on Saturday, officials reported on Monday.
On May 28, deputies found McMaster in his cell appearing to experience a seizure. He was taken to a hospital for treatment and was discharged on Saturday, returning to the jail.
During his intake medical screening at approximately 11:40 a.m., McMaster told guards he needed to use the restroom. Deputies escorted him to the bathroom but soon heard a noise coming from the cell.
Deputies discovered McMaster on the floor experiencing a medical emergency. First responders were called and attempted life-saving measures, but McMaster was pronounced dead at 12:46 p.m.
The cause of death is being determined by the medical examiner, the Sheriff's Office said. McMaster had been in custody since February on suspicion of murder.