Crime & Safety
Clark County, IN Inmate Death: Police Release New Details Monday
Clark County, IN — Indiana State Police are investigating the death of a 41 year old inmate at the Clark County Jail in southern Indiana after a preliminary autopsy determined the manner of death was
By Blake Harrison · 2026-11-02T21:21:16.380Z
Clark County, IN — Indiana State Police are investigating the death of a 41 year old inmate at the Clark County Jail in southern Indiana after a preliminary autopsy determined the manner of death was suicide.
According to Indiana State Police in Sellersburg, detectives were called to investigate the death of Eric B. Blanton, 41, who was discovered unresponsive inside the jail Saturday, Oct. 31.
Authorities said other inmates found Blanton unresponsive and immediately alerted jail staff. Lifesaving efforts, including CPR, were attempted, but Blanton was pronounced dead at the facility by the Clark County coroner.
Indiana State Police were notified of the incident at approximately 5:15 p.m. Saturday and responded at the request of the Clark County Sheriff 's Office.
An autopsy was conducted Sunday, Nov. 1. The preliminary findings classified Blanton's manner of death as suicide, according to state police. Investigators said no foul play is suspected, although final autopsy results remain pending.
The circumstances surrounding Blanton's death remain under investigation, including what occurred before he was discovered unresponsive.
Detective Mackenzie Benham of the Indiana State Police Sellersburg Post is leading the investigation. Authorities said additional investigative steps will include follow up interviews and a review of any available surveillance footage from inside the facility.
Police have not released additional details about the circumstances of Blanton's incarceration, how long he had been housed at the jail or the specific cause of death.
The investigation remains active as detectives work to establish a complete timeline of events surrounding the incident.
As of Monday, Nov. 2, Indiana State Police have not announced when the final autopsy findings or additional investigative details might become available.
Authorities said no further information is available at this time.