Pima County Inmate Dies in Surgery, Sheriff’s Department Confirms

PIMA COUNTY, Ariz. — A 59-year-old inmate named James Waddell died while undergoing surgery on October 18, as confirmed by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. The incident occurred at 2:30 p.m. during a medical procedure at a local hospital.

According to the sheriff’s department, Waddell experienced complications during surgery, despite efforts from hospital staff to save his life. He had been in custody since his arrest on June 4 and was admitted to the hospital on October 2, officials reported.

Authorities indicated that there have been “no suspicious circumstances” surrounding Waddell’s death. An investigation is currently underway to determine further details.