Gainesville, FL – A 68-year-old woman died Sunday night while in custody at the Alachua County Jail, prompting an active investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on May 10, 2026, when detention staff requested emergency medical services at approximately 11:15 p.m. after finding the woman unresponsive in her bed inside the jail’s infirmary.
Authorities identified the woman as 68-year-old Shirley Williams, who had been housed in the infirmary under close medical observation. According to officials, detention staff conducted routine checks every 15 minutes, as required by policy and verified by internal camera systems.
During one of those checks, a detention officer reportedly discovered Williams was not breathing. According to the sheriff’s office, a “Code Blue” was immediately initiated, with staff performing CPR while awaiting additional medical support.
Gainesville Fire Rescue personnel arrived at approximately 11:22 p.m. and took over life-saving efforts. Despite those measures, paramedics pronounced Williams deceased at 11:50 p.m., officials said.
The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division is conducting a comprehensive investigation, which is standard procedure for any death that occurs within the Department of the Jail. An internal review by the Office of Professional Standards is also underway.
Officials noted that the information remains preliminary and subject to change as investigators gather additional details.
Sheriff’s officials extended condolences to Williams’ family as the investigation continues.
