Peoria County Jail under Investigation following Death of Inmate
Peoria County Coroner says there is no clear evidence of the cause of death.
In the late hours of September 9, local EMS were dispatched to Peoria County Jail after an inmate was found unresponsive in his cell. Erick C. Luncsford, 33 of Peoria County, was pronounced dead in the jail cell at 12:35 a.m. Illinois State Police and Peoria County Coroner's Office have teamed up to launch an official investigation into the death of Luncsford, as required under the Death in Custody Act.
Officers assessed Luncsford and determined he was not breathing and had no pulse. An officer attempted resuscitation measures on Luncsford. The officer experienced a medical emergency during his attempts, requiring medical attention the officer was transported to the hospital. After medical evaluation, the officer was cleared for release.
Luncsford was arrested on August 28, for a warrant that was issued after he failed to appear in court for an open domestic violence case from 2020. Arrest records show he has a long history of criminal activity beginning as early as 2009.
The Peoria County Coroner's office released an official report stating the results of Luncsford’s autopsy came back inconclusive and further investigation is required. Peoria County Coroner, Jamie Harwood, shared that there were no evident signs to explain the death. Harwood expresses hope that pending toxicology and biopsy results will offer more insight into the cause of death. Until the cause of death is determined, this is an ongoing investigation.
This is deeply concerning. It’s troubling to hear about allegations of misconduct and mismanagement at Peoria County Jail. Prisons are meant to be places of rehabilitation and justice, not neglect or abuse. I hope the investigation is thorough and that the appropriate actions are taken to ensure accountability and improve conditions for everyone involved—both inmates and staff. Public trust in the justice system depends on transparency and fairness. https://locatorinmate.com/illinois-prison-inmate-search/?abc=H&pg=9