On July 18, 2024, at approximately 5:30am, an inmate at the Columbia County Detention Facility died from apparent health complications while housed in the medical observation unit.
David Odell (74 yoa), was in custody at the detention facility awaiting extradition to Pennsylvania for a violation of sex offender registration warrant. While conducting routine checks, detention staff noticed Odell appeared to be in medical distress and immediately began providing aid. Despite efforts by detention staff and EMS, Odell could not be revived.
Sheriff Hunter stated, “We take our responsibility to care for those who are in our custody very seriously. While we provide the best care we possibly can, these unfortunate situations cannot always be avoided. Our condolences are with Mr. Odell’s family.”
Next of kin notifications have been completed and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement was requested and responded to conduct an impartial investigation. No further information is available at this time.
