Attempted murder suspect dies in jail

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the death of an inmate at the Columbia County Detention Facility in Lake City. 

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) announced the death on Saturday but did not immediately disclose the identity of the inmate, pending next of kin notification.

On Monday, CCSO spokesman Steven Khachigan told Mainstreet Daily News that the deceased inmate was Joshua Bell Farmer, 28, who was in jail for attempted murder. 

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CCSO deputies arrested Farmer last May in connection with a shooting that left one person injured and damaged a car. He faced charges of attempted murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. He was being held on a $1 million bond. 

The cause of Farmer’s death is still under investigation. 

Joshua Bell Farmer

“Although details are limited at this time due to the active investigation, the death is believed to be the result of a medical issue, and foul play is not suspected,” the CCSO said in a statement. 

The CCSO said it is cooperating with the state probe. 

“We are deeply saddened by this as we always try to provide the best care we can for our inmates,” Sheriff Mark Hunter said in a statement. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the inmate’s family.”

Editor’s note: This story has been updated. 

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