Police: Intoxicated Lancaster man died in jail

An intoxicated Lancaster man has died in what police are calling a suicide, according to a Lancaster police news release.

On Wednesday around 7 p.m., officers responded to calls about disorderly conduct inside the Walmart on the S.C. 9 Bypass. Justin Keith Sampley, 21, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, according to police.

Sampley was taken to the Municipal Justice Center. Around 11 p.m., he was “discovered unconscious in his cell, the victim of an apparent suicide attempt,” police say.

Despite “life-saving measures,” Sampley “could not be revived,” the release states.

The State Law Enforcement Division is investigating.

“Our sincere and heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family and loved ones of Mr. Sampley,” said Police Chief Harlean Carter. “His death is unfortunate and untimely. We ask that you remember Mr. Sampley’s family in your thoughts and prayers as well the members of the Lancaster Police Department.”

This story was originally published January 2, 2015 at 8:59 AM with the headline "Police: Intoxicated Lancaster man died in jail."