Prison inmate dies in Mille Lacs County

Authorities are trying to find out how a prison inmate died in custody yesterday in central Minnesota.

The Mille Lacs County sheriff identified the inmate as 57-year-old Robert James Sam of Onamia.

He had been incarcerted earlier in the week after turning himself in on an outstanding warrant for his arrest.

Sam was found unresponsive yesterday at the jail in Milaca, and emergency crews could not revive him.

Authorities say toxicology tests will determine how Sam died.

Here is a released statement about Sam's death:

We are working to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event. The Mille Lacs County Sheriff's Office is committed to the safety and well-being of all individuals in our care. We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Mr. Sam during this difficult time. We ask for your patience and understanding as we continue to gather facts and work through the investigative process.