October 14, 2025

Investigation Launched into Inmate Death at Chatham County Jail

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.