Shelby County is mourning the latest loss of an inmate in custody after 45-year-old Tiffany Dukes passed away Monday at a local hospital. Dukes had been receiving care since October 21, following a previous five-day hospitalization earlier that month. Officials have not disclosed the reason for her hospitalization.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has not yet been contacted to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the passing but provided limited information about the incident.
Duke’s death marks the fourth inmate death in Shelby County in under three weeks, raising concerns and questions about jail conditions and oversight. On October 29, 24-year-old Dalton Goddard was found unresponsive in his cell. Shortly after, on November 1, 40-year-old Antonio First was also discovered unresponsive. Most recently, 41-year-old Christopher Steele passed away on November 7 at a hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for undisclosed reasons since November 1.
At this time, the exact causes and circumstances of all four deaths remain unknown, and investigations are ongoing. Shelby County authorities have not released further details and continue to review the situations carefully.
The recent string of deaths has sparked concern among residents and advocacy groups regarding inmate safety and accountability within the county jail system. Officials have stated that all incidents are being taken seriously and that investigations will continue to ensure transparency.
Community members who may have information related to these cases are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office or relevant authorities to assist in ongoing inquiries.
