Investigation Launched into Inmate Death at Madison County Detention Facility

Police officers and medical staff responding at a detention facility

Huntsville, Alabama, August 11, 2025

News Summary

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of inmate Demetrius Lemonte Stewart, who was found unresponsive in his cell. Despite emergency medical efforts, Stewart was pronounced dead shortly after being discovered. Preliminary reports suggest a possible heart attack, prompting an autopsy to determine the official cause of death. The sheriff’s office stated there are no signs of foul play and has extended condolences to Stewart’s family as investigations continue.

Huntsville, Alabama – The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is currently conducting an investigation into the death of an inmate at the Madison County Detention Facility. The deceased, identified as Demetrius Lemonte Stewart, was 52 years old and had been booked into the jail shortly after midnight on Saturday following an arrest by Huntsville Police on a probation violation warrant.

Stewart was being held at the facility when a routine check conducted by detention officers at 3 a.m. revealed nothing unusual. However, during the jail’s morning count at approximately 7:30 a.m., Stewart was confirmed to be in his cell. It was not until meal service commenced around 8:30 a.m. that he was discovered unresponsive.

In an effort to save his life, jail officers and on-site medical staff immediately administered CPR and performed other life-saving measures. Emergency medical personnel from the Huntsville Emergency Medical Services, Inc. (HEMSI) arrived shortly after and continued the emergency efforts, but unfortunately, they were unable to revive Stewart. He was pronounced dead at the facility after efforts to detect vital signs were fruitless.

Initial assessments by medical staff at the detention facility suggest that Stewart may have suffered a heart attack. To establish the official cause and manner of death, his body will be transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for an autopsy.

The sheriff’s office has noted that there are no indications of foul play or any suspicious circumstances surrounding Stewart’s death. This development has prompted Sheriff Kevin Turner to extend condolences to Stewart’s family, acknowledging the emotional toll such incidents can have on both the staff and first responders involved.

While investigations into the circumstances are ongoing, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office continues to emphasize its commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of all individuals in custody.

Background on Stewart’s Arrest

Demetrius Lemonte Stewart was arrested for violating the terms of his probation. The details surrounding his original charges and the specifics of his probation violation were not disclosed. This incident sheds light on broader issues concerning the health and safety of inmates in detention facilities, particularly those with preexisting health conditions.

Implications for the Facility

Facilities housing inmates must ensure that they are equipped to respond to medical emergencies effectively. The death of an inmate raises crucial questions regarding the health infrastructure available and the measures in place for monitoring inmate health. The Madison County Detention Facility has protocols for routine medical check-ups, but this incident may prompt a review of those practices and an assessment of emergency response capabilities.

Conclusion

The investigation into Demetrius Lemonte Stewart’s death is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Ensuring the health and safety of inmates remains a priority for the Madison County Sheriff’s Office as it navigates this incident.

FAQ

What happened to Demetrius Lemonte Stewart?

Demetrius Lemonte Stewart was found unresponsive at the Madison County Detention Facility after being arrested for a probation violation. He was pronounced dead after emergency efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.

What caused his death?

Initial medical assessments suggest that Stewart may have suffered a heart attack, but an autopsy will confirm the official cause and manner of death.

Was there foul play involved?

The sheriff’s office has indicated that there are no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances regarding Stewart’s death.

What are the next steps in the investigation?

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Stewart’s death and will provide updates as they become available.

What protocols are in place for inmate health monitoring?

The Madison County Detention Facility has protocols for routine medical check-ups and emergency responses, and the situation will likely prompt a review of these practices.


Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Madison County Sheriff’s Office Mourns the Loss of Sergeant Joe Rice
Huntsville Community Holds Vigil for Cherished Residents
Tra’Von Johnson Recaptured After Second Jail Escape
Tragic Incident at Mule Creek State Prison Claims Life
South Carolina Makes History with Firing Squad Execution
Brad Sigmon Scheduled for First Firing Squad Execution in Over a Decade
Mexican Drug Lord Rafael Caro Quintero Arrested After 40 Years
Tragic Death of Inmate Leads to Calls for Justice
Huntsville’s Legal Drama: A Murder Case Takes a Twist
Domestic Dispute Escalates: Stabbing Incident in Huntsville, Alabama

Additional Resources

STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER

The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!
Advertising Opportunity:

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Sign Up Now and get your local business listed!