News Summary
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is probing the death of Anthony Garza, a 67-year-old inmate at Chatham County Detention Center. Garza, who suffered from pre-existing medical conditions, died after complaining of abdominal pain, and was subsequently found unresponsive in his cell. An autopsy is pending, as authorities strive to determine proper procedures were followed in his healthcare.
Savannah, Georgia
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has initiated an investigation into the death of 67-year-old inmate Anthony Garza at the Chatham County Detention Center. Authorities reported that Garza, who was classified as homeless and had pre-existing medical conditions, died on October 10, 2025.
On the night of his death, Garza began complaining of abdominal pain around 8:30 p.m. Medical personnel at the Chatham County Jail responded to his complaints and deemed it necessary to transport him to Memorial Health University Medical Center for further evaluation. However, as Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were en route to the facility, Garza was found unresponsive in his cell at approximately 11:30 p.m. Efforts to revive him by medical staff were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead at the jail.
The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office is currently working to identify Garza’s next of kin as part of the ongoing investigation. An autopsy will be performed at the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office in Pooler to establish the cause of death. Upon completion of the investigation, the case file will be forwarded to the Eastern Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review.
Background Information
Anthony Garza was an inmate at the Chatham County Detention Center, a facility that houses individuals awaiting trial or serving short sentences. The circumstances surrounding his death have raised concerns, prompting the GBI’s involvement. The agency has emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation to understand the details leading up to Garza’s death and ensure that proper protocols were followed.
Inmate health and safety are critical components of jail operations. The medical team at the Chatham County Jail is responsible for responding to health crises among inmates, which can often complicate the standard procedures of law enforcement facilities. The current investigation by the GBI underscores the necessity of accountability and transparency, particularly regarding the care provided to inmates who may require medical assistance.
As the investigation unfolds, the Chatham County community and the general public remain attentive to any updates regarding the case. The outcomes may impact policy and oversight related to inmate care and health services within local detention centers.
Ansley Franco, a reporter, is covering this story and can be reached via email. Further updates are expected as both the GBI’s investigation and autopsy results progress.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Georgia Senators Call for DOJ Investigation into Bibb County Jail Conditions
Big Changes Ahead for Death Row Inmates in Georgia
Additional Resources
- Savannah Now
- Wikipedia: Prison Health Care in the United States
- WTOC
- Google Search: Chatham County Detention Center
- WSAV
- Google Scholar: Inmate Health Care
- Valdosta Today
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Criminal Justice
- WJCL
- Google News: Chatham County Jail Death
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
