Contra Costa County Inmate Dies After Fight At Martinez Jail

MARTINEZ, CA — An inmate involved in a fight Wednesday at the Contra Costa County jail in Martinez later died in the hospital, the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office said.

Levele Williams, 32 years old of Oakland, died just after 9 p.m. Thursday at John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek, according to Sheriff's Spokesman Jimmy Lee.

Just over 24 hours prior to his death, at 7:20 p.m. Wednesday, Williams and other inmates were in a physical fight. Williams was seen Wednesday night at the jail by medical staff with the Contra Costa Health Department.

Around 10 p.m. Wednesday, Williams complained that his jaw was in pain so he was taken to Contra Costa Regional Medical Center in Martinez, Lee said.

Four hours later, at 2:15 a.m. Thursday, Williams was taken to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek where he underwent surgery for a broken jaw.

"Williams apparently suffered from complications during surgery and was later pronounced deceased while at the hospital," Lee said.

Williams was booked into the Martinez jail Sept. 9 when he was arrested by the Pittsburg Police Department on suspicion of charges including: assault with a deadly weapon (firearm), felon in possession of a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm, and having a concealed weapon in his vehicle.

According to the sheriff's office, Williams also had a Ramey warrant for his arrest in connection with a homicide. He was also wanted on suspicion of domestic violence and making criminal threats, Lee said.

As the investigation continued Friday, Lee said anyone with any information about the death may call the sheriff's Investigation Division at 925-313-2600 or the Sheriff’s Office dispatch at 925-646-2441. Tips can be sent via email to tips@so.cccounty.us. Tipsters can also call 866-846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.