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Virginia Beach Correctional Center inmate dies following medical emergency

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Marvin Williams Jr.

A Virginia Beach Correctional Center inmate died on Sunday afternoon following a medical emergency.

Marvin Williams Jr., 47, of Virginia Beach, reported to a deputy sheriff that he was feeling unwell at early that morning and was taken to the jail’s Medical Division for treatment. Afterward, he was returned to his cell in medical observation, where a deputy sheriff found him unresponsive during a routine security check at 1:41 p.m. He immediately provided medical attention and called for assistance. Despite receiving medical care from deputies, jail nurses and medics from the Virginia Beach Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services, Williams succumbed to his illness and was declared deceased at 2:16 p.m. Lifesaving efforts included performing CPR, using an AED and providing oxygen.

Williams was arrested by the Virginia Beach Police Department and booked into the Virginia Beach Correctional Center on Aug. 17, 2021, on one felony charge of unauthorized use of an auto. He was granted a $1,500 surety bond, which was not posted to allow for his release. He was provided a full medical and mental health screening, which identified pre-existing medical and mental health issues, for which he was receiving treatment and being housed in a medical observation cell. Specific medical information is protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and cannot be released. Williams also completed the mandatory 10-day COVID-19 quarantine for all new admissions to the jail. He was last responsive about 1:35 p.m., when he was sitting up and eating.

As with all in-custody deaths, the incident is being investigated by the Virginia Beach Police Department and Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office. As required, it has also been reported to the Virginia Department of Corrections, which reviews all in-custody deaths and has the authority to investigate. No foul play is suspected.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Norfolk determined that Williams died of natural causes, “ruptured aortic dissection due to hypertensive cardiovascular disease with morbid obesity as a contributing factor”.

Any questions or requests for additional information from the news media should be directed to Margie Hobbs, Public Information Officer: mhobbs@vbso.net or 757.385.8446.