Inmate dies after collapsing at El Dorado County Jail in Placerville

An El Dorado County Jail inmate died late Friday after collapsing in an outside recreation yard at the Placerville detention facility, authorities said.

James Thomas Clark, 53, of West Sacramento, was given CPR by jail officers and then taken to Marshall Hospital where he died, said Lt. Tim Becker of the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office.

There were no obvious signs of foul play and the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office and the DA's office are investigating.

Here is a news release issued early Sunday morning from the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office:

On Friday night March 22, 2013 about 8:00 PM, an inmate at the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office Jail in Placerville California was transported to Marshall Hospital following his collapse while exercising in an outside recreation yard.

James Thomas Clark, age 53, from West Sacramento California, collapsed suddenly while in the recreation yard. Correctional Officers immediately started Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation which continued during transport by ambulance to Marshall Hospital.

Following arrival at the hospital Mr. Clark was pronounced dead without regaining consciousness.

The incident is under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office. There were no obvious signs of foul play. An autopsy will be conducted.

Questions may be directed to Capt. Randy Peshon, Custody Division Commander at 530-642-4706.