David Mark Decoteau, a 27-year-old inmate from Augusta, was pronounced dead early Wednesday morning after being found unresponsive in his cell at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center, according to local and state authorities.
The Richmond County Coroner’s Office confirmed Decoteau’s identity Wednesday following notification of next of kin. He had been in custody since August 21 on a Superior Court order to show cause warrant, jail officials said.
Decoteau was housed alone in a single cell for preventative reasons and was under routine observation by jail staff. According to documentation and video surveillance, he was last seen alive at 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday, sitting up in his cell.
At approximately 6 a.m., he was pronounced dead at Wellstar MCG Health, where he had been transported by Central EMS after detention personnel discovered him unresponsive and began immediate life-saving efforts.
Officials stressed that the incident was not related to fabricated social media claims earlier this week alleging a jail death, which the sheriff’s office previously debunked.
“This incident is unrelated in any way to the social media posts made Monday, September 15, 2025,” said Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard. “All safety protocols were followed. The inmate was housed alone for his protection and routinely monitored. Checks were confirmed through written logs and surveillance footage.”
An autopsy has been scheduled, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is leading the ongoing investigation into the cause and manner of death.
Sheriff Eugene Brantley issued a statement expressing condolences to the Decoteau family.
“The safety and well-being of every individual in our custody is a top priority. Any loss of life is tragic, and we extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones. Our staff acted swiftly and did everything possible to render aid until EMS arrived.”
No further details have been released pending the results of the GBI investigation.
